Olga Woltering, who was originally from Suffolk but living in Atlanta, was understood to be on holiday with her husband Ralph.
She died during the shooting at the baggage claim area at Fort Lauderdale on Friday.
Ex-soldier Esteban Santiago has been charged over the attack and could face the death penalty if found guilty.
The Catholic Church of the Transfiguration in Cobb County, Georgia, which Mrs Woltering had been a member of since 1978, has led tributes to the 84-year old.
Father Fernando Molina-Restrepo said: "Olga was one of the most joyful, loving, caring and committed people I have ever met. This is a horrible tragedy for everyone here at Transfiguration, especially because Olga was so loved.
"May God give consolation to all of the victims of this tragedy and may God give eternal rest to those who died. Especially to our beloved Olga. Peace."
Friends who attended church with Mrs Woltering have spoken of their shock and horror at her killing on social media.
Jerry De Varennes wrote: "Tragedy hit too close to home today. Transfiguration Church lost a very loving and caring woman in the Ft Lauderdale airport attack. Prayers lifted up for the soul of Olga Woltering and her family. Prayers also lifted up for a crazy and cruel world."
Virginia Moran added: "So very sad, Olga's ever present smile was infectious and brightened any day, she will be deeply missed and my prayers are with Ralph, her family, all those she touched, and all who were impacted by yesterday's senseless action."
Diane Friesen said: "Dear Ralph, wish there was something we could do to take away your pain. Olga was loved so much. Our hearts are broken.
Santiago has been charged with committing an act of violence at an international airport resulting in death along with two firearms offences and will appear in court on Monday.
The FBI has revealed Santiago had a gun confiscated previously, after walking into the law enforcement agency's office in Anchorage, Alaska, in a distressed state.
However, it was returned to him in December after he underwent mental health checks.
They did not say if it was the same gun as used in the attack at the airport.