APOPKA, Fla. — Family, friends and fellow service members came together Saturday in Apopka to honor the life of Army Specialist Mariyah Collington, the 19-year-old soldier who died while serving in Morocco.
The memorial service drew loved ones, members of the military and community leaders, all gathered to reflect on Collington’s life, her commitment to service and the lasting impression she left on those who knew her.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers remembered Collington as both a devoted soldier and a young woman deeply committed to helping others. Their remarks painted a picture of someone whose presence was felt wherever she went.
Friends said her spirit could light up any room. One friend, speaking during the service, remembered her as “the girl who danced like no one was watching” and “the girl whose energy was impossible to ignore and made every moment better.”
As the service continued, many who spoke urged mourners to look to Collington’s life as an example, celebrating not only her military service but also the joy, compassion and energy she shared with others.
Many speakers told mourners that Collington’s life should serve as an example to others.
“As we reflect on her life, we may find comfort in our shared memories and strengths and the example she left behind,” a speaker of the service said. “Specialist Mariyah Collington exemplified what it means to be a strong, respectable soldier.”
Those who served alongside Collington also spoke about the loss felt throughout their unit.
“It is a heavy heart and saddens me that I will not get to see the career that I had in front of her,” a soldier in her platoon said.
Military honors, including a gun salute, marked the end of the service as family members prepared for a final farewell.
One soldier described Collington as “a remarkable soldier, a cherished friend and beloved daughter” and “a very valuable member” of the battalion family.
Collington died while serving in Morocco. She was 19 years old.
Her burial is scheduled for Monday, June 15, at 11:30 a.m., where family and friends will gather once again to honor her life and legacy.
