Sheryl Stack mourns via music

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The families impacted forever by a suicide plane attack in North Austin found common ground at a benefit concert Sunday.

A benefit concert for Sheryl Stack, estranged wife of Joe Stack, was held at Bachus Conservator Recital Hall in Northwest Austin. Stack's friends along with members of Vernon Hunter's church were in attendance.

"I am the victim of a violent crime, done by someone I love, and someone who loved me very much," Stack said.

Stack finally broke her silence about her husband's aerial attack on Austin's Echelon Building.

Stack read a pre-written speech during a concert benefit, but never once spoke her husband's name.

She took time, however, to quote the Bible and stopped often to choke back tears.

 "My prayers are continuously with the widow and family of Vernon Hunter and Shane Hill and all the others that were injured and or traumatized by this catastrophe," Sheryl explained.

Sheryl was joined by members of Vernon Hunter's church, the only person to die in the crash other than Stack.

A gospel choir from Greater Mount Zion Baptist joined many of Stack's musician friends and sang songs like Amazing Grace.

Both parties brought together through this tragedy,  grieved for the loss of life.

"I am a christian. I believe in Jesus Christ the Prince of Peace. I do not believe in violence, not even as a last resort," Sheryl added.

Sheryl, who told listeners she is the daughter of an ordained Christian minister, also reflected on what she lost when her husband burnt down the family home before his fateful flight.

"I have lost my home along with all of my earthly possessions including my daughter's birth certificate with her footprints," Sheryl said.

Stack said she may be sad about losing her husband, her home and all of her things, but she has learned life lessons.

"I've learned in the last two weeks that life and love are the only things that matter," Sheryl concluded.

Sheryl does have plans to meet with Vernon Hunter's wife Valerie in the near feature.

That meeting, however, will take place in private.