A wake was held for the man who was stabbed to death inside a Longwood bodega last week.

It was not a typical wake – it was a drum party outside the Ortiz Funeral Home in Mott Haven. The friends and family of Frankie Williams say it's just how they wanted to express their grief. They say Williams would want them to be celebrating his life.

Williams, 37, was stabbed to death after police say an argument started when he was accused of stealing a beer inside a bodega. Friends say he didn't steal the beer and claim he was a frequent shopper.

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The suspect, according to police, is 26-year-old Ronny Torres – the son of the bodega owner. He's facing a second-degree murder charge and scheduled to appear in court this month.

The family says as part of tradition, the party continues into the night at a family member's house with eating, drinks and more dancing.

"This is the way that we express our grief ... we dance," said family member Pablo Blanco.