RAEFORD — Since its beginning, the story of Brittany Locklear has touched the hearts of people across the state. Monday, both people who knew her and even strangers gathered to say goodbye.

It was a difficult day for Raeford. The untimely death of Brittany touched close to home for family members and for many people who have children of their own.

It's never easy to bid farewell to a friend of relative who dies, but the death of a little child is often more grief than a person can bear.

Principal George Marston of West Hoke Elementary told the crowd of mourners to imagine Brittany happy and free, playing in God's land.

An entire community came together to pour out its collective sadness. Family, friends and strangers came to remember a life gone too soon.

Ramona Clark, Brittany's art teacher, remembers her former student as a girl who was always smiling.

Pam Elsasser brought her children to the funeral to lay pink carnations by Brittany's side. The death has caused her to think more about her own life and the life of her children.

As for the person who kidnapped and killed little Brittany, Reverend Tony Hunt issued a stern warning as he delivered the eulogy. Hunt warned the killer not to be afraid of Sheriff Wayne Byrd or the FBI, to be afraid of God's wrath.

Hunt also asked mourners to pray for the capture of the suspect. If you have any information that might lead the authorities to Brittany's killer, you are asked to call 1-800-496-3803.