Sarai Sierra Murder: Steven Sierra, husband of New York woman found dead in Turkey, hasn't told kids about mother's death

(CBS/AP) NEW YORK - The children of Sarai Sierra have yet to know that their mother was found dead in Turkey because their father hasn't had the strength to tell them that their mother is gone.

PICTURES: N.Y. mom found dead in Turkey

Steven Sierra spoke by telephone Monday from Istanbul on ABC-TV's "Good Morning America." He called his wife an amazing and caring person who loved their 9- and 11-year-old sons.

Sarai Sierra was on a solo vacation in Istanbul when she disappeared on Jan. 21. Her body was found 12 days later near the remnants of the city's ancient walls. Police said she suffered a fatal blow to the head.

Her husband traveled to Istanbul last week to help in the search. He intends to accompany her body back to her home in New York.

Complete coverage of Sarai Sierra on Crimesider