5 years after murder, Hadiya Pendleton's parents honor her legacy

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Monday will be the fifth anniversary of the death of Hadiya Pendleton, 15, who was shot and killed just one week after taking part in the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

Her parents are doing their best to honor her legacy.

Next week, the owners of a South Chicago restaurant will celebrate two years in business. It's a success for the Pendeltons. Hadiya's portrait hangs on its walls.

"It's no better. It's no better at all," Nate Pendleton, her father, said.

"It's not straightforward. We just do the best that we can," said Cleopatra Cowley-Pendleton, mother.

Monday is five years since the vivacious teenager was caught in gunfire in a park. Hadiya had performed at Obama's inauguration with her schools' band and drill team days before.

Her parents have become anti-violence advocates. At times that has meant being in the public eye, but more recently it's been working with teens directly.

The Pendeltons are now preparing for the April trial of the two men charged in their daughter's murder.

"It's been a long time coming, but when we go through this, it's the last time," Cleopatra said.

"We don't want any appeals. We just want justice," said Nate.

The Pendletons don't have anything special planned for Monday; they plan to just lay low with family. But this summer they are planning a large celebration on June 2, to mark what would have been Hadiya's 21st birthday.