PALM BAY, Fla. – A resolution was adopted Tuesday evening to memorialize three Palm Bay children who were killed in March.
[RELATED: Vigil held for 3 slain children | DCF report released ]
The resolution renames the southern-most little league field at West Oaks Park as Angels' Field in memory of Lacey and Phillip McCarty and their brother, Christopher Swist, city officials said.
Two weeks after the children were killed, Christopher's grandfather, Stanley Swist, met with city leaders requesting the name in honor of the three children. City officials said the two older siblings were active participants in Palm Bay West Little League.
The Parks and Recreation Department approved the plan to have the field bear the sign, "Angels' Field, In Memory of Lacey, Phillip and Christopher."
"The families of these children deserve this and so much more," said Mayor William Capote. "Lacey, Phillip and Christopher will always be remembered for their sweet innocence. We know they are in a better place, and we continue to pray for peace for their families that loved them so much."
Capote and City Council adopted the resolution with a unanimous vote. Officials said the name change will take effect immediately.
[READ: Angels' Field city resolution]
Family members who were present during the Council resolution thanked the Council and the community for the comfort and support they received, officials said.
"I don't think you ever heal from this," said Swist. "The best we can do is survive. The way we survive is we all stand together as one family. As far as you guys even thinking about naming the field -- that really means a lot to us. We just can't say enough, 'We miss our kids. We miss our kids.'"
Family members hope to officially dedicate the field in May. They're also hoping to set up a foundation for needy children, so they can enjoy playing in the Palm Bay West Little League, even if they cannot afford to play.
There's another softball tournament fundraiser on Saturday, April 25 at Southwest Park Florida Avenue Superdraft Style. Proceeds will go to the little league. For information call Isaac Suarez at 321-626-3475.