Loved ones raise funds for alleged murder victim Kierra-lea Jensen’s funeral

Loved ones are raising funds for the funeral of alleged murder victim Kierra-lea Jensen, whom close friends say was the kind of person who would have “put up one hell of a fight for her life” before her tragic death.

Kierra-lea Jensen was allegedly murdered on July 15. Photo: Supplied

Loved ones are raising funds for alleged Ipswich domestic violence murder victim Kierra-lea Jensen.

Kierra-lea, known by loved ones as Kierra, was found dead while police were conducting a welfare check in Leichhardt on Monday, July 15.

Police alleged the 28-year-old had suffered “a number of stab wounds”.

Her partner Kitchel Kevin Shillingsworth, 36, has since been charged with murder (domestic violence offence).

It was understood they had been in a relationship for a short time before her death.

Close friend Scott Midgley started a GoFundMe campaign yesterday, July 16, to raise funds for Kierra’s funeral.

Mr Midgley wrote that they hoped to give Kierra the “send off she deserves”.

“She didn’t deserve to tragically have her life taken,” he said.

“I know she (was the kind of person who) would have put up one hell of a fight for her life.”

Kierra-lea Jensen has been remembered as a “beautiful, caring and funny person”.

Mr Midgley said Kierra, the firstborn of six children, had been a beloved aunty, cousin and “the best friend anyone could ask for”.

“Kierra was the most beautiful, caring and funny person,” Mr Midgley said.

“She could make you laugh no matter what was going on.

“She didn’t judge anyone and she made sure that everyone knew she loved them so much.”

Another friend, Rachelle O’Halloran, said Kierra had been a “go lucky carefree person”.

“She loved everyone, helped everyone out, made everyone laugh,” Ms O’Halloran said.

Mr Midgley fondly recalled Kierra’s “contagious laugh” and “loud and rambunctious” behaviour.

“She would make the dumbest and silliest jokes that made you giggle for ages,” he said.

“Kierra was that person in our family who would always step up and try to bring everyone together to bond connect and have fun whether it be for a birthday party, a wedding, or just because.

“Her infectious personality was the light and joy of any gathering … Kierra took care of us all when we needed it.”

Mr Midgley said Kierra’s family would be “most appreciative” of any donations towards Kierra’s funeral.

He encouraged anyone aware of or suffering from domestic violence to “please step up and protect those that speak out and ask for help”.

“Look for the warning signs and don’t leave any warning or sign unturned,” Mr Midgley said.

Originally published as Loved ones raise funds for alleged murder victim Kierra-lea Jensen’s funeral