Friends, family and fellow soldiers gathered Saturday morning in Wilton for a final farewell to Army Specialist Abigail Jenks.

Stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the 20 year old died on April 19 during a helicopter training jump. Jenks was flown into Albany International Airport Thursday afternoon with help the U.S. Army Honor Guard. 

She was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division and a Saratoga County native, graduating from Saratoga Springs High School in 2018.

“She always became a better person the next day, she was very creative and I want her to be remembered for how positive she was and how much she loved everyone in her life," said Mary Jenks, Abigail's mother.

Those close to her say she was a risk taker, had a contagious smile and would make the most out of every moment.

Her mother Mary, speaking at her funeral service, said Abigail should be remembered for the way she was always bringing people together — even now. 

“I know souls who have traveled from Missouri, Oklahoma, Florida, Massachusetts and North Carolina, all over the country, for one beautiful shining light,” said Mary.

Jenks will be buried at Greenfield Cemetery on Sunday afternoon.