Orange County -- Family members in Orange County are mourning the loss of Bami Carmane, a 61-year-old woman described as a "beautiful and loving mother with a big heart." Carmane was found dead in her home on Foxglove Drive near Rose City last Thursday. The sheriff reported that Carmane suffered trauma to her body, though the cause of death is still pending.

Deputies have arrested 48-year-old Adrian Echevarria on unrelated state and federal parole violation charges. Authorities have labeled him a "person of interest" in Carmane's death. Echevarria was the one who called 911 to report that she was "unresponsive."

Carmane's family and friends are devastated by the loss. Her son, Brian Haney, described her as a "lightning rod," saying, "Everything is just drawn to her. She's the center of attention wherever she goes no matter what crowd she's in."

Carmane was known for her love of travel, nature, music, and her compassion for all creatures. Her sister, Rita Gonsoulin, said, "Bami was always very protective and really as I got older I learned that it was not just because I was the baby sister, it was just her nature."

Cindy Zamora, a friend of Carmane, recalled her supportive nature, saying, "You had panic attacks or anxiety or anything like that, you didn't have time to have them. She would make you a strong individual and that was her character."

Carmane served in the Army and recently retired after 34 years as a nurse. Her son, Brian Haney, credited her with saving his life during his struggle with alcoholism. "The last time I saw her was the 19th. We got together for dinner so that we could celebrate 19 months of sobriety. It was a beautiful dinner and I had a wonderful time, and I wouldn't have been there. I wouldn't be here right now if it wasn't for her," he said.

In honor of Carmane's love for photography, her family plans to create a public exhibit featuring photos she took over the years. A GoFundMe is set up to help with funeral funds and expenses.