Jennifer Maraston Gross
Founder|Director|Family Advocate
Jennifer Maraston Gross is the esteemed Founder and visionary leader of Peace Beyond The Pain, where she provides organizational leadership and oversees the day-to-day operations of the nonprofit. Driven by a profound commitment to serving families impacted by homicide, Jennifer works closely with each family to understand their individual circumstances, connect them with appropriate resources, and ensure they receive compassionate, meaningful support throughout their journey.
As a Traumatic Grief Coach, Jennifer specializes in supporting families who have experienced the devastating loss of a child to homicide. Her approach is rooted in compassion, lived experience, faith, and a deep understanding of the complex emotional challenges that can follow traumatic loss.
Jennifer's passion for this work was born from personal tragedy. She is the mother of Peace Beyond The Pain Angel, Jaquan Wyatt, whose life was tragically taken through homicide. She is also a devoted mother of three other children. Her experience as a mother navigating the unimaginable loss of a child inspired her to create a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where other families could grieve openly, feel understood, and begin the journey toward healing.
Through her own experience, Jennifer understands that the effects of homicide extend far beyond emotional pain. Families may also encounter financial challenges, uncertainty, and overwhelming responsibilities while attempting to navigate life after loss. Her firsthand experience allows her to approach each family with empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to helping them identify resources and pathways forward.
Jennifer earned an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Real Estate from Houston Community College and holds a Texas Real Estate Salesperson License. She is also pursuing her Minister's License, further reflecting her commitment to spiritual growth and service.
Above all, Jennifer believes that while the pain of losing a loved one to homicide may never completely disappear, healing is possible. Through Peace Beyond The Pain, she remains committed to walking alongside families, providing hope, support, advocacy, and encouragement as they navigate life after loss.
“There is HEALING AFTER HOMICIDE.”
Jaila is responsible for developing and administering programs while cultivating enduring relationships within the youth division of Peace Beyond the Pain. She joined the team after the tragic loss of her brother in 2019. Motivated by a commitment to helping others improve their situations, Jaila believes that young people connect more effectively with their peers.
Willie Pelt
Director of Pastoral Services
Willie oversees the ministry aspect of our organization and has over 40 years of experience in sales. He obtained his Certificate of Ordination from The Christian National Church and holds a Certificate of Chaplaincy from Lifeline School of Theology. Willie is a passionate individual who has served as the Senior Pastor of 2nd Immanuel Bible Fellowship Church for the past 11 years, and held the position of Sunday School Superintendent at The Cross of Christ Baptist Church for 5 years. He brings a wealth of experience and skills to our organization, helping it grow and succeed.
Jaila Taylor
Director of Youth Services
Jaila is responsible for developing and administering programs while building meaningful, lasting relationships within the Youth Division of Peace Beyond the Pain. A graduate of Lancaster High School, Jaila joined the organization following the tragic loss of her brother in 2019.
Her personal experience fuels her passion for helping young people navigate grief, loss, and difficult circumstances. Jaila is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where youth feel heard, understood, and empowered. She believes that young people often connect most effectively with peers who can relate to their experiences, and she strives to be that source of encouragement, understanding, and hope for others.
Carolee Furukawa
Carolee Furukawa oversees the financial assets and liabilities of the organization. She earned her Economics degree from UC Davis and later obtained her MBA from the University of Southern California. Carolee has held positions such as Credit Manager & Vice President at Bank of America and Treasury Operations Manager & National Account Manager at Toyota Motor Credit Corporation. She formally served as the Director of Operations/Inside Sales & Dealer Integration Trainer at Toyota Industries Commercial Finance. Additionally, Carolee has volunteered with the 1736 Family Crisis Center and joined Peace Beyond The Pain with the commitment to enhance our Non-Profit Organization through her experience and integrity.
Stephanie Houston
Board Secretary
Stephanie Houston has more than 20 years of experience in Customer Service and Management. She is vital in managing and maintaining the board's records, greatly impacting our daily functions. Furthermore, she is the founder of The Muhlaysia Booker Foundation, which focuses on aiding transgender individuals who have faced victimization. Stephanie became a part of Beyond The Pain to uplift, encourage, and support those who have lost loved ones to homicide.
Lesha Dansby
Chairman | Social Media Specialist
Kalesha brings over 15 years of experience in mortgage banking and serves as Board Chair for Peace Beyond The Pain. She provides leadership, supports organizational governance, works closely with the Founder, and helps strengthen the organization’s community presence through social media engagement.
A Dallas native and mother of three, Kalesha’s personal experience with the loss of two immediate family members gives her a compassionate understanding of grief and the importance of supporting families through their healing journey.
She is dedicated to advancing the mission of Peace Beyond The Pain and helping families find support, hope, and healing after loss.