THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WTXL) - Loved ones of Deanna Shirey celebrated her life Thursday at First Baptist Church in Thomasville. Cameras were not allowed inside. However, WTXL spoke with some of Deanna's friends about how they are remembering her.
Deanna Shirey's close friend, Sherry, said, "Every week we used to go riding together and we used to have so much fun. It's bringing back memories." Memories is all Sherry has left of her close friend Deanna Shirey.
Horseback riding was one of Shirey's favorite things to do and it quickly became a weekly outing for the two of them. "It's just, it's making me very sad that I won't be able to go riding with her anymore," said Sherry.
Sherry came to Thursday's Celebration of Life to honor a life taken too soon. Dozens of other people at the Celebration of Life said they're remembering Shirey as kind, trusting and welcoming to everyone.
"Her kindess, her sweet spirit. Just a loving, caring woman of the community. She will be greatly missed," said Nina Jackson.
Shirey's family opened the service to the entire community, who've been behind them since they day they announced she was missing. Shirey is leaving behind 3 children, 8 grandkids and 8 great-grandkids. Nina said, "The family will definitely be in my prayers and justice for her I hope will come."
THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WTXL) - The family of Deanna Shirey said, Thursday night's celebration of life is a way to step forward and get closure.
70 year-old Shirey has lived in Thomasville for 13 years and her family said she was close to many in her community.
When Shirey went missing in early July, her loved ones immediately came to Georgia.
Shirey's son-in-law, Nick Abiusi, said it's touching to see the community come together and show support during this painful time.
"We are able as a family and as a community to get that closure on where mom is and know that she's home with the Lord now and she's at peace and we just have to learn to live with that each day," said Abiusi.
Abiusi said, he's hoping Thursday will not only help him and his family, but also Shirey's friends and neighbors.
The sole suspect in the murder of missing woman Deanna Shirey, waived his right to a formal arraignment on Thursday.
Robert Carter II did not go in front of a judge to hear his charges.
Instead, his attorney informed him of his rights and charges.
Carter is not seeking bond, and acknowledges the charges of malice murder, and concealing the death of another.
It's been nearly three weeks since Shirey was reported missing.
