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Sandra Yi reporting Funeral services were held today for 15-year-old Trisha Autry, three years after she was murdered.
Sue Campbell/ Family Friend: "Well, I think it's way past time. I'm sorry that it had to go so long."
It was in 2001, Trisha's remains were found, burned in a research facility in Millville. She had been stalked, kidnapped and dismembered.
Her killer, Cody Nielsen, went to trial and was convicted in January.
Sue Campbell: "I was there at the court for the trial and can imagine how horrific it was for the family. I mean, I can't imagine. It's just beyond belief."
One family friend hopes Trisha's mother can now find peace, after giving her daughter a proper burial.
Sue Campbell: "When I saw her in the grocery store soon after and she told me that her remains would eventually be released, I said, 'Are you starting to feel that burden lift?' And she said, 'Finally.'"
During the service, family and friends shared fond memories of a young girl who dreamed of traveling the world, and loved to sing.
It's been a tough journey for the Autry family. Friends hope it will only get easier from here.
Sue Campbell: "I Tthink after the trial, I think they can begin to relax. I'm sure this is a closure for them, not that it'll ever go away. But I think it'll get better."
Brock Autry, Trisha's brother, told us he wants his sister to be remembered as someone who was always true to herself. He says there is no closure, but he takes comfort in knowing she will always be in his heart.
