9:47 AM PT — The service is wrapping up now. Standing in front of photos of Gabby … her father, Joe Petito, urged everyone to take inspiration from the way she lived — which was to be kind and love everyone.
Joe also stated that if there’s a relationship that you’re in that might not be the best thing for you, to leave it, now.
Her stepfather, Jim Schmidt, also spoke and said Gabby taught him to choose to make memories with family and loved ones over making money. Neither man made any mention of, or reference to, Laundrie.
Gabby Petito’s family still has so many unanswered questions about her death, but they’re still coming together to pay their final respects.
Those closest to Gabby are gathering at Moloney’s Funeral Home in Holbrook, NY … near where the 22-year-old grew up on Long Island.
Last week, the Teton County Coroner’s Office confirmed the family’s worst fears … the body found in Grand Teton National Park was indeed Gabby’s, and also revealed her death as a homicide.
As you know, Gabby had been on a cross-country trip with her fiance Brian Laundrie when she went missing at the beginning of September. While no one had a clue about her whereabouts, Laundrie briefly returned to his parents’ home in Florida — without Gabby — and has since vanished.
Moab Police Department
Since then, law enforcement released body cam video of the couple shortly after a domestic dispute. We also know a 911 caller reported seeing Laundrie strike Gabby.
The FBI and other law enforcement agencies continue to conduct an extensive manhunt for Laundrie — who’s been indicted for unauthorized use of a credit card right around the time Gabby went missing, and cops now have a warrant for his arrest.
Sunday’s funeral services come on the heels of Friday night’s emotional vigil for Gabby in her hometown of Blue Point.
Scores of residents attended and held up lanterns they purchased for $20 to help the Petito family cover burial costs.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to the future Gabby Petito Foundation.
Originally Published — 8:36 AM PT
