A large crowd gathered in front of the arches Thursday evening to honor the memory of St. Thomas junior Ria Patel, who died in a car crash early Sunday.

Candles were passed around to the crowd, and many attendees brought flowers, photos and food items that reminded them of her.

Guests were invited to share their favorite stories and fond memories of Patel. Several classmates, friends and family members came forward.

“She didn’t apologize at all for who she was, and she shouldn’t have because she was so freaking happy all the time,” one friend said. “We all just need to live like her. So unapologetic, so brave, so happy.”

Cadenza, St. Thomas’ female acapella group, ended the vigil with a song in her honor.

Patel’s funeral is at 1:30 Saturday in Woulfe Alumni Hall.

Mary Brickner can be reached at bric0029@stthomas.edu.