Family gathers to honor Pauline Terrazas one month after fatal Bakersfield crash

One month after 67-year-old Pauline Terrazas was struck and killed while crossing Brundage Lane, family, friends and members of the Bakersfield community gathered Thursday evening to celebrate her life and honor the impact she left on those around her. The vigil marked one month since Terrazas died after she was struck while crossing Brundage Lane on Father's Day. While the tragedy brought loved ones together in grief, her family said the evening was meant to focus on the life she lived rather than the way she died. For her son, Sal Soliz, holding the vigil was an opportunity to make sure his mother's memory continues to live on. "It's been a month already. Time goes by so fast, but just as a reminder to celebrate her life and let her know that we haven't forgot her and what our mission is for her," Soliz said. He said he hopes the gathering serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering loved ones. "Unity... and just keeping someone's memory alive, or loved ones keeping their memory alive is really important," Soliz said. "Something that we need to do. I don't know if we plan on being out here every month, but as much as possible just to keep someone's memory alive and let them know they weren't forgotten." Throughout the evening, those who knew Terrazas reflected on the kindness, faith and compassion that defined her life. Brandon Manning, who became Terrazas' son-in-law, said she welcomed him into the family with open arms. "She has been one of those people that have been very encouraging, and supportive, and loving, and she's one of the type of people that would give compliments, and tell you how much you mean to the family, and how appreciative she is how you treat her family and you're there for them," Manning said. He said Terrazas' faith influenced the way she treated everyone she met. "She shared God's love with people, and especially with me. She made me feel very welcome and supported and loved," Manning said. Looking back on her life, Manning said what stood out most wasn't material possessions, but the memories she cherished with the people she loved. "She didn't have a lot as far as material wealth," Manning said. "But when we went through her stuff at the end of her life, there were so many memories that she just cherished. There were so many pictures, and so many things from grandkids and kids. It shows you the value of what she had in her life." He said the family's grief has been made easier by the overwhelming support they've received from the community. "We've had a lot of people come and support. Her funeral had 160 people... We've had people reaching out, and I feel that we've been really blessed with people and their love, and support, and praying for us," Manning said. The family has created a GoFundMe called In Loving Memory of Pauline Terrazas, to raise money for any related expenses during this hard time. As candles were lit and prayers were shared, Soliz reflected on what he believes his mother would have thought of seeing so many people gathered in her honor. "She would have been amazed," he said. "She would have been proud. She'd been really proud." Although the vigil centered on celebrating Terrazas' life, Soliz also shared one final message for the community. "Drive safe, keep an eye on the pedestrians," he said. "Just pay attention at all times." The family says they are grateful for the support they've received over the past month and hope Pauline Terrazas' story reminds people to cherish their loved ones every day.