LAUREN Rafferty's "brilliance and love" has been remembered at an emotional memorial service in Wagga on Thursday.
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The 12-year-old tragically passed away on Mother's Day, leaving friends, family and the wider community to grieve.
Hundreds of people gathered to celebrate Lauren's young life in a public service at the Botanic Gardens, where her father Brent spoke of her confident nature.
"Today, we cry tears of grief, of loss and of love," Mr Rafferty said.
But in that grief, there were fond memories.
"[Lauren] was loving, clever, a true friend and more precious than my words can express," he said.
"She was our diamond, multifaceted, brilliant, polished."
With few dry eyes in the crowd, Lauren's mother Rachelle gave an emotional tribute to her "ray of sunshine".
"When I was pregnant with both my children, I daydreamed and hoped as every parent does, that they are beautiful, brilliant and kind, I hope they are healthy, happy and clever, and what I got was far greater than what I could have ever possibility imagined," she said.
"Lauren was a shining light of joy in our family ... She was, and always will be, loved and cherished."
If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
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