A community support group for families and carers of people with autism has paid tribute to Gold Coast woman Wendy Sleeman, whose body was found in a car at a Brisbane apartment complex this week.
Ms Sleeman helped establish the volunteer support service more than two decades ago.
Now called Autism Gold Coast, the group still operates today.
Treena Bourke from Autism Gold Coast said Ms Sleeman used her home in the early days of setting up a support group for parents on the southern end of the city from 1996.
Ms Bourke, along with four friends Jan, Debra, Helen and Tony, issued a statement paying tribute to Ms Sleeman ahead of a community vigil at Elanora on Sunday.
"She was a tower of strength for families, especially the mothers of children with autism, when there was little to no support for their children on the Gold Coast," their statement reads.
"She was there at all times of the day to respond to phone calls, offer comfort and understanding.
"She gave her time so freely to help others."
Ms Sleeman's son Slade Murdok has been charged with multiple offences after being arrested at Durack in Brisbane's south on Wednesday afternoon.
The 30-year-old was refused bail when he appeared in a Brisbane court on Thursday.
Mr Murdok has been charged with unlawful stalking, burglary, assault occasioning bodily harm, kidnapping, attempted arson, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle.
"Autism Gold Coast sends our deepest sympathies to the Sleeman family and friends at the tragic loss of Wendy Sleeman," the statement reads.
"Wendy helped form what became a monthly support group and its first coordinator, with mothers and their children meeting in her home and those of other mums in the 90s.
"She was a powerhouse; she championed the cause of autism by educating the community of our struggles, and advocating for funding and supports."
The statement, published to the group's Facebook page, said Ms Sleeman was an "integral part" of the group's foundation, which was then known as the Gold Coast ASD Support Group.
"Her hard work, dedication and love for her family and community was well-known. There are those of us from the early days who became long-time friends," the statement said.
"We will miss you Wendy and forever remember the significant difference you made in our lives and those of other families in the Autism community."
