Be inspired by Gabby, says father

Relatives and friends gathered on Sunday (Monday AEST) at the funeral service for Gabby Petito, the 22-year-old American woman whose disappearance and murder made international headlines, as a manhunt intensifies for her boyfriend.

Her father Joe Petito told mourners at the service in New York, as well as the American public, not to be saddened by her tragic death but instead be motivated by her brief, adventurous life.

“When you leave here today, be inspired by what she brought to the table – because the entire planet knows this woman’s name now,” he said. “I couldn’t be more proud as a father.”

A live feed of the service showed loved ones hugging in front of bouquets of flowers and large photographs of Gabby.

Dozens of police and other first responders were seen lining up to pay their respects.

Her family had reported her missing on September 11 after not hearing from her since August.

Her body was later found in the western state of Wyoming, near where the white camper van she and Brian Laundrie were travelling in was reported seen.

Gabby’s death has since been ruled a homicide. Authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Laundrie over fraudulent use of a credit card and have broadened their search for the 23-year-old, who remains at large.