Kandee Martin's family is on the brink of closure as they await the execution of Marion Bowman Jr., convicted of her murder over two decades ago. Kandee, a 21-year-old mother from Branchville, South Carolina, was brutally murdered on February 16, 2001. Her tragic death left behind a young son, Tyler, just two years old at the time, and a family grappling with grief and the complexities of justice.
Kandee grew up in a tight-knit family in the small town of Branchville. Known for her radiant personality, she was adored by her sister-in-law, Lisa Martin, who fondly recalls Kandee's unique spirit. Lisa shared memories of Kandee's charm and quirks, such as her penchant for frozen pickled pigs' feet during pregnancy.
"In the South at our country stores you can get pickled pigs' feet, and when she was pregnant she would get those and freeze them. It was totally gross," – Lisa Martin
"She liked what she liked, and that was just her," – Martin
Despite her struggles with addiction to crack cocaine, Kandee was attempting to turn her life around at the time of her death. On the day she was murdered, she found herself at a low point, battling the demons that had plagued her. Her murder shocked the community and her family.
"It was total shock because you know, this doesn't happen in Branchville. This doesn't happen to our family." – Martin
The family gathered on February 21, 2001, to celebrate Tyler's second birthday with an Elmo-themed party. The event was bittersweet, attended by victims' advocates and police investigators. Amidst the festive decorations, a somber air lingered as they faced the grim reality of Kandee's absence.
For over two decades, Kandee's family has awaited justice. Marion Bowman Jr.'s impending execution by lethal injection marks a significant moment for them. However, they have chosen not to witness the execution.
"That's just not something that any of us want to have to watch," – Kandee
Kandee's sister-in-law, Lisa Martin, reflects on the complex feelings surrounding the death penalty and their Christian beliefs.
"It kind of puts you in a weird predicament whenever you're a Christian and you also believe in the death penalty. It kind of gives you mixed emotions." – Kandee
While some family members believe Bowman's execution will bring closure, they grapple with mixed emotions about his ability to live and reconcile over the years.
"He gets to do so many things that Kandee doesn't get to do. He gets to speak to his family. I read that he got to hold a grandchild… He's had 24 years to find God and he can tie up his loose ends," – Martin
"We never got that opportunity. What was left of Kandee is in a coffin in the ground." – Martin
Lisa vividly remembers Kandee's vivacious spirit and beauty.
"I remember just seeing her walking and just thinking how beautiful she was − blonde hair, gorgeous brown eyes," – Martin
"It was like she had a glow… She looked like a princess." – Martin
As the execution date approaches, Kandee's family continues to reflect on her life and untimely death. Their journey through grief has been long and arduous, marked by moments of anguish and memories of joy.
Leave a Reply