On September 24, the loved ones of Gabby Petito gathered to celebrate a life cut tragically short.
Services for the 22-year-old, whose remains were found in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park, were an emotional gathering. While the families strived to keep things uplifting and celebratory of all of Gabby's life, the cloud of her death and all the unanswered questions also loomed.
One of those to speak at the services was Gabby's father, Joe Petito. Joe thanked everyone who took part in spreading Gabby's story and bringing her home. He also asked that everyone be "inspired" rather than sad about Gabby's untimely death.
"So when you leave here today, be inspired by what she brought to the table," Joe told mourners.
"Because the entire planet knows this woman's name now. And she's inspired a lot of women and a lot of men to do what's best for them first."
"Put yourself first and do it now while you have the time," Joe urged.
"I couldn't be more proud as a father."
Gabby's stepfather, Jim Schmidt, also spoke at the services and centered his remarks around Gabby's forearm tattoo, which read "Let It Be" in honor of The Beatles' song.
"When the broken-hearted people living in the world agree there will be an answer, let it be," Jim quoted.
"It's okay to mourn for Gabby, and it's okay to feel sorrow and pain. But we want to celebrate her and how she lived her life," Jim continued.
"We need to hold on to all of those wonderful memories we shared with her, because that will be the answer. Let it be."
Gabby's mother, Nichole, has hung back as her husband and Gabby's father spoke on the family's behalf. On Saturday, she thanked supporters ahead of the services.
"As I scroll through all the posts, my heart is full of love. I wish I could reach out and hug each and every one of you!!! Your support has been so overwhelming and we are so filled with gratitude," she wrote.
"Please know what you are all doing for us does not go unnoticed, and with all of you by our side, we will get #justiceforgabby I want to thank my dear friend Jack for making this Beautiful tribute to Gabby ."
The search for Gabby's fiancé, Brian Laundrie, continues. He was last seen on September 14, and since he's gone missing, a federal warrant for his arrest has been issued. He allegedly told his parents that he was going for a hike in Florida's Carlton Reserve, where police have been searching for nearly two weeks in increasingly difficult conditions.
