By SAMANTHA SARACINO
6 News Reporter
MARYVILLE (WATE) - Friends and family gathered Thursday to remember the life of 16-year-old Amelia Keown, who was killed Tuesday in a car crash.
State police say Keown, 16, was killed instantly in the crash.
Officials say John Perkins, 44, crossed the center line on Highway 411 at Binfield Road, hitting Keown head-on. Perkins also died from his injuries.
Dodson Memorial Baptist Church was filled for a memorial in honor of Keown.
"Did I expect a crowd this large? Definitely, because she touched every life," said Dustin Payne, Amelia's theater mentor and friend. "Even if she just looked at them in the hallway she touched their life."
Friends and family were reminded of Keown's life with music, prayer and memories.
"She was just so funny. Everything about her is a good memory. There is nothing bad about this girl. She was just amazing," said Ava Franklin, who says she sat with Amelia everyday at lunch.
"It didn't matter what time of day it was. If she had the worst day ever she'd still come to practice and make us all smile," said Dakota Healey, a friend and fellow dance team member.
Something everyone seemed to remember and acknowledge was Keown's passion for dancing.
"I love her and I miss her. I miss seeing her dance. She was a great dancer," Payne said.
Dozens of balloons in Amelia's favorite color pink were released in her honor. It was a way for family and friends to show she will never be forgotten.
"She brought a lot of good to everyone's hearts. She made everyone smile. It amazes me just how much everyone loved her," said Erika Huffman, a friend.
Keown will be honored again before Friday night's William Blount High School football game.
Dozens of balloons in Amelia's favorite color pink were released in her honor.
Amelia Keown (source: family)
