Family of slain jeweler faces first Thanksgiving without him on same week killer is sentenced
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Thanksgiving has a somber tone this year for the family of Ghazi "Gus" Osta, a beloved husband and father who was killed during an altercation at his jewelry store in July.
Osta’s widow, Leigh, reflected on the void left by his absence.
"My husband was a very charismatic, strong personality at the table, in the community, everywhere. He made his presence very known, so to have that empty seat is very significant," she said.
Ghazi Gus Osta [Credit: Family photo]
The family’s grief comes as the man who killed Osta was sentenced Tuesday to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
John Craiger, 83, pleaded guilty to fatally shooting Osta, 68, following an argument inside Volusia Gold & Diamond on West International Speedway Boulevard.
MORE STORIES:
- 'AJ' Owens' loved ones announce creation of new fund, hoping for changes to FL Stand Your Ground law
- Man killed on Florida golf course in ‘random’ attack remembered as ‘good, good person’
- New state law not deterring homeless camping in Melbourne, residents say
- Caribbean Princess makes Port Canaveral home, offering Thanksgiving cruise to Turks and Caicos
- Astronaut High cheerleaders set to shine in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
"It’s the only justice that you have," Leigh said of the sentencing. "Every aspect of your life is touched with a homicide because you never get the ‘why.’"
In an emotional day inside the Volusia County courtroom, Leigh addressed Craiger directly in her victim impact statement.
"You will come out in a body bag," she told him. "Enjoy the journey to hell."
John Craiger
As she navigates life without her husband, Leigh said the sentencing marked a step forward in her healing journey.
Credit: Fiona Osta
Credit: Fiona Osta
Her message for families cherishing time together this Thanksgiving was heartfelt.
"You really need to appreciate each day that you have—each day you have with each other. That’s the strongest message. We just don’t get that time back," she said.
STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO:
- Download the FOX 35 News app for breaking news alerts, the latest news headlines
- Download the FOX 35 Storm Team Weather app for weather alerts & radar
- Sign up for FOX 35's daily newsletter for the latest morning headlines
- FOX Local: Stream FOX 35 newscasts, FOX 35 News+, Central Florida Eats on your smart TV