at a church in conyers, georgia, the family, friends and school mates of phylicia simone barnes say goodbye to the murdered 16-year-old. >> this is the time when everybody needs everybody. >> reporter: the teenager's family greets supporters, a video of phylicia simone barnes is played for those filling the church. >> mighty god, grant this family your strength. >> reporter: school counselors speak about her love for children and excitement about theater. >> it became that fierce, fiery girl, skipping over educational standards to reach her educational goals and not even stand for bs and cs. >> phylicia was highly motivated. she had clear goals. ♪ >> reporter: a family member reads a poem written by phylicia's mother, one as if the teenager herself is speaking from heaven above. >> if all of you knew how much fun i'm having living with my father god, all of you would be glad. so please, for me don't cry. it's only a temporary goodbye. >> reporter: phylicia simone barnes disappeared december 28th from her sister's apartment in northwest baltimore. back to you. >> suzanne collins live tonight