Tears were shed and laughter was had as Alexis Hunter’s family and friends gathered at a Sunday prayer vigil to remember the slain teen.

The Alexis Hunter Love Stops the Violence Foundation organized the prayer vigil exactly one year after the 18-year-old Selma High student was shot dead at the corner of Franklin Street and Memorial Avenue.

With more than 100 in attendance, Alexis’ mother Joann Hunter spoke to the crowd about how much their support meant to the Hunter family.

“I’d like to also not just remember Alexis, but other families that are going through the same thing that I am,” Joann said. “We all hurt for each other, and we all feel this pain that you cannot get over.”

Among the people to speak at the ceremony were Dallas County Board of Education member Leroy Miles, Selma City Council President Corey Bowie and Dallas County Probate Judge Kim Ballard.

Miles said he admired Alexis’ determination to get to school on time each day, even if it meant walking.

He later encouraged his students to adopt high academic goals like Alexis.

“Stop the violence,” Miles said. “Be about what you come though these doors to get, and that’s an education.”

Briana Lee, one of Alexis’ close friends, smiled as she spoke about one of the best memories she had of her friend, someone she described as loving and caring.

“When we went out to eat at China Wok, we were joking and playing around with my little sister,” Lee said. “It’s just sad that she’s gone.”

Toward the end of the ceremony, Joann reminded the guests about how much their prayers were appreciated and needed.

“Continue to pray for me, because I need prayer,” Joann said. “I can’t make it without prayer.”

Murder suspects John Jones and Larry Hunter, the reported shooter, allegedly robbed a group of girls, including Alexis, for their cell phones during the incident on Dec. 21, 2013.

The two are expected to appear in court for trial May 4, 2015.