PARKLAND, FLA. (WSVN) - Two more victims of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting were laid to rest, Monday.
Family and friends gathered for a viewing for two 14-year-old girls at Kraeer Funeral Home in Coral Springs. Families said their final goodbyes to Cara Loughran and Gina Montalto, Monday evening.
Fourteen-year-old Alaina Petty was honored in a service at her church in Coral Springs, Monday morning. Petty was a part of the high school’s JROTC program.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Coral Springs shared audio from her funeral service: “We’re grateful for all of you who have come to join with us and celebrate Alaina’s life.”
Her family described her as someone who loved to serve others. “A vibrant and wonderful young woman,” said family friend Diahan Southard. “She had a true heart for other people and was always, always willing to serve.”
Petty also volunteered with the church’s Helping Hands program.
Family friend Diahan Southard is a member of Alaina’s congregation. “She had a true heart for other people and was always, always willing to serve,” Southard said of Alaina.
“Seeing all my neighbors, my friends, people here suffering the way they’re suffering, this shouldn’t have happened,” said Glenda Maldonado, who was visiting a memorial.
Family members also gathered to remember 15-year-old Luke Hoyer at Church by the Glades.
“You couldn’t just not like him. He was a cool kid,” said Grant Cox, Hoyer’s cousin.
“He’s gone way to soon,” said Trey Cox, another of Hoyer’s cousins. “It’s no reason for it, a kid with so much opportunity ahead, and it’s shattered in an instant.”
Family members described Hoyer as a quiet young man who liked basketball and video games. They also said he loved his family, dogs and friends.
“Always had smile on his face, and that’s what I remember most: he was always smiling,” Grant said. “He was just happy to be around.”
Many tears were shed and hugs given on Monday as those mourning said goodbye to children who were taken too soon.
Friends of Petty have found comfort in knowing she is in a better place. “She’s good. She’s happy, and she’s helping us now make it through all of this,” Southard said. “Just as she would here on earth, she’s now helping us from heaven.”
Funerals were also held over the weekend for 17-year-old Joaquin Oliver and 14-year-olds Jamie Guttenberg and Alex Schachter.
A funeral will be held for Loughran and Montalto Tuesday morning at Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church.
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