BYU NewsNet - Candlelight Vigil Turns to Memorial

A message of gratitude and optimism accompanied by beautiful music bid goodbye to BYU student Camille Cleverley, as more than 1,000 people gathered at Miller Field for a candlelight memorial service.

“This is a night of gratitude,” said Sue Cleverley, Camille’s mother. “Your loving service has been tremendous.”

The memorial came shortly after the week-long search for the BYU student ended Sunday afternoon with the discovery of her body at the base of a cliff east of Bridal Veil Falls. Provo City Mayor Lewis Billings praised the tireless efforts of local authorities and volunteers that brought closure to Cleverley’s family and friends.

“There were men and women that blew out knees and ankles in the search today,” he said. “Every life is precious. Hopefully we can use this occasion to rededicate ourselves to our families and treat each other with more kindness.”

Provo City flags will fly at half-staff today in Cleverley’s memory.

In what BYU President Cecil O. Samuelson called a “somber yet rejoiceful day,” members of Cleverley’s family as well as Utah Lt. Governor Gary Herbert praised Camille’s life and urged others to use the occasion to enjoy life’s precious moments.

“I used to play catch with Camille when we needed some one-on-one time,” said David Cleverley, Camille’s brother. “She’s a great sister and I’ll miss her but I know she’s with her Father in Heaven and that someday I’ll be able to play catch with her again.”

Herbert urged students to learn and grow from life’s difficulties.

“We’ve all hoped and prayed for a different outcome,” he said. “The true test is for those of us left behind to see if we grow positively in the crucible of adversity.”

Over a thousand candles burned softly as Elizabeth Smart played “Serebande” on the harp. Following a moment of silence, the audience spontaneously sang “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” then filed reverently out of the subdued stadium. The Smart family played an intimate role in the volunteer-search effort.

“There’s always comfort in knowing families can be together forever,” said David Smart, Elizabeth’s uncle and search volunteer. “May the Lord continue to bless and comfort the Cleverley family at this time.”