A South Blooming Grove woman killed inside her home days before Christmas is being remembered as a devoted mother, as the case against her accused killer moves toward indictment.

News 12 has confirmed this is being investigated as a domestic violence incident, and that the suspect, 44-year-old Joseph Pennyfeather, was her boyfriend, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.

The victim, 45-year-old Tanzanica Dickerson, was found Dec. 23 inside her home at 11 Heritage Trail with a gunshot wound and signs of trauma, according to New York State Police. Investigators say an argument inside the residence turned violent.

Pennyfeather is currently in the process of being indicted. His scheduled appearance in Blooming Grove Town Court Monday was canceled as the case moves to Orange County Court.

Her family gathered outside the courthouse Wednesday, not aware the appearance had been canceled. They told News 12 they showed up because they refuse to let the process move forward without someone present for her.

“I can’t even wrap my head around this,” said her uncle James Zuill, of Spring Valley.

Zuill said Dickerson tried to help Pennyfeather in the past.

“He was her ex-boyfriend. She left him for a while and somehow, she took him back. I don’t understand it,” he said.

He described him as someone she tried to support.

“He’s just a bum. A straight-out bum. He didn’t work. She felt sorry for him. Tried to help him and this is what happened,” said Zuill.

Family members said Dickerson leaves behind four children in their 20s, and that she worked constantly and cared deeply for her children.

“She’s going to be remembered. She loved her kids. She constantly worked trying to keep her family together.”

Her aunt, Carol Dickerson, said they want accountability and closure.

“Tanzanica will be remembered for her smile, her kindness. We love you, Tanzanica, and you will get your justice,” she said.

Dickerson's wake will be held Jan. 9 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 6 Hoyt Street in Spring Valley, followed by a funeral at 12 p.m. She will be laid to rest at Brick Church Cemetery.

The killing is the third domestic violence-related homicide in the Hudson Valley within days during the holiday season.