Memorial held for Chandra Levy

Friends and family remembered Chandra Levy's giggle, smile and adventurous spirit at a Tuesday morning memorial service in Modesto that attracted an estimated 1,200 people.

Less than a week after Levy's remains were found in a remote section of a Washington, D.C., park, those who knew, or came to know of her as the story of her disappearance dominated headlines for more than a year, filled the city's community center.

Two hours before the service began, authorities in Washington, D.C., announced that the 24-year-old Levy was the victim of a murder, although they are unable to determine an exact cause of death.

In Modesto, meanwhile, television satellite trucks filled a half-acre parking lot outside the civic center where the one hour and twenty minute service was held.

During the service, a number of Levy's family spoke, including her younger brother, Adam, who drew spontaneous applause from the crowd when he finished his comments.

"I would like to thank everybody here," he said, "for all the support and love you’ve shown Chandra and our family."

See tomorrow's Bee and modbee.com for complete coverage.