CONYERS, Ga. (AP) - Phylicia Simone Barnes is being remembered as a caring, unique girl with a bright smile who was born to succeed.

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Family and friends said goodbye Saturday to the North Carolina teen whose body was found months after she went missing while visiting family in Baltimore. The service was held at a church in Georgia.

The 16-year-old from Monroe, N.C., went missing Dec. 28. Last month her body was found in the Susquehanna River, an hour's drive from Baltimore.

Authorities are investigating her death as a homicide, but have not released the cause.

Barnes' pastor says she was born to succeed and willing to put in the work.

Leaders from her high school say Barnes was both respectful and a master of having fun. They plan a scholarship in her name.

A memorial service for Barnes is set for May 14 at Mount Pleasant Church in Baltimore.