A memorial was held Saturday for a Neptune City woman who was murdered in December.

Prosecutors say Sarah Stern was strangled by her friend Liam McAtasney during an alleged robbery.

They say her body was dumped over the Route 35 Bridge into the Shark River with help from Preston Taylor. Stern's body was never found despite several search attempts.

Stern's artwork was on display at Neptune City Community Center as teachers, friends and family spoke about the impact the young artist had on their lives.

"She was a bright light in my classroom," one teacher said. "She was a joy to look forward to seeing each day and a shining star for all of us."

A candlelight vigil followed the memorial.