The funeral service for Miya Marcano was held in Florida, USA on October 14, 2021. Photo: Facebook

Hundreds of persons traveled from both the USVI and the Virgin Islands (VI) for the funeral service, given Miya Marcano had strong roots in both places. Photo: Facebook

Miya Marcano's family had reported her missing after she missed a flight home to South Florida on September 24, 2021. Photo: Orange County Sheriff's Office

At the front of the church, a golden crown rested atop a painted casket as tributes poured in at the funeral live-streamed on Facebook. Memories of her vibrant personality and a life that impacted many were brought to life through stories. 

The night before at the same venue, some of Marcano’s family hosted a remembrance ceremony followed by live performances and more outpouring of tributes.

Hundreds of persons travelled from both the US Virgin Islands (USVI) and the Virgin Islands (VI) for the funeral services, given Miya had strong roots in both places.

Marcano's tragic death 

Marcano, a 2020 graduate of Charles W. Flanagan High School, was murdered in the Orlando area where she attended college. She was missing for several days until her body was discovered.

Detectives at the Orange County Sheriff's Office, in Florida, USA, announced on October 2, 2021, that they found a body believed to be that of Miya Marcano, pending positive confirmation.

Police believed her killer was her co-worker, a maintenance man Armando Manuel Caballero who pursued her romantically; however, she declined his pursuits. Caballero later killed himself after being named the prime suspect.

'No means no'

The family is now making it a mission through the Miya Marcano Foundation to help families of missing people and to help protect college students and the vulnerable.

Marcano’s family, including her uncle and pastor, emphasised the importance of respecting a woman saying no and urged men to teach their young boys the importance of respecting a woman's decision.