Lula Lou Woicinski White, aged 71, was tragically killed on November 5, 2017, during the mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. She was a beloved member of her community, known for her warm heart and deep religious faith. Lula was very active in her church and often shared her love for God and her family on social media.
The shooter, Devin Patrick Kelley, killed 26 people, including Lula, and injured many others.
Kelley had a history of domestic violence and had been court-martialed by the U.S. Air Force for assaulting his wife and stepson. Despite this, his criminal history was not properly reported to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System , allowing him to purchase firearms.
After the shooting, Kelley fled the scene but was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident led to numerous investigations and litigations, including lawsuits against the U.S. Air Force for failing to report Kelley's criminal history. The families of the victims, including Lula's, sought justice and accountability for the failures that allowed Kelley to obtain weapons.
Lula's death was a profound loss for her family and the community. Her niece, Amy Johnson Backus, shared a heartfelt post on Facebook about Lula's last message, which pondered the fragility of life. Lula's sister, Mary Mishler Clyburn, described her as a wonderful, caring person who loved her church and her family deeply.
The Sutherland Springs shooting remains one of the deadliest mass shootings in Texas history, prompting discussions about gun control, mental health, and the need for better reporting of criminal records. The victims and their families continue to seek justice and reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.
