The Nevada Department of Veterans Services is holding a celebration of life vigil Thursday night for the woman killed in Virginia City Highlands late last month.

The vigil for Jana McElhaney will begin at 7 p.m. on the grounds of the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home at 36 Battle Born Way in Sparks. 

Additionally, a funeral service for the 54-year-old will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. at the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Fernley.

McElhaney died on January 26th at an area hospital. 

Storey County Deputies say 47-year-old William Collier was arrested in connection with her death and now faces an open murder charge.

A GoFundMe page has been set to help the family with expenses. 

NDVS says McElhaney was named Veteran of the Month in November 2015. It says she volunteered in many military organizations and veterans' groups. 

"Those who knew her well will always remember her amazing kindness, warmth and willingness to extend a helping hand to anyone who came within her circle. She touched so many lives and will always be remembered for her enthusiasm and passion in serving Nevada's veterans and their families."

 

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