Family and friends gathered in Dewitt to remember the life of a woman who was found in a landfill.

"We’re here to honor and celebrate the life of our beloved Kerrilee," said Kerrilee's Uncle Raymond Watkins.

Kerrlee D'avolio was shot in the back of her head and her body was later found in a Oneida County landfill. 

"We would thank the friends, coworkers and the entire community for support," said Watkins.

Friday she was remembered as friends and family held her calling hours and funeral in Dewitt. 

"She was always very encouraging of me, saying come on jill, you can do it," said friend Joan Collins.

Training for the boilermaker with friends, Kerrilee left a lasting impression. 

"She just spoke three languages, she was a great mom, she was a great person, and she was a special education teacher. She was just always positive and encouraging," said Collins. 

"Because the enormity of Kerrilee's life, we felt it was appropriate to have an enormous show of support," said Watkins. 

These folks want you to remember Kerrilee as a happy and hopeful person. 

"Her honesty and genuine love to keep growing and to keep doing better for herself," said Collins 

For them, she was a friend and family member-- not the tragedy that ended her life.