Westboro rallies around Marriott family

WESTBORO, Mass. (WHDH) -- Elizabeth, Lizzi, Marriott’s hometown of Westboro is rallying around her family as they come to grips with her sudden and shocking death.

Pastor John Taylor said Marriott’s father came to his church on Sunday.

“He personally wanted to be with people, the community, to pray and just focus on God, and he found some strength,” said John Taylor, First United Methodist Church.

Closed to 1,000 people gathered for a vigil Saturday night. Marriott’s father attended as well.

“It really shocks everyone to their core,” said Principal John Smith.

The 19-year-old graduated from Westboro High School in 2011. She was an exceptional student and was prom queen her junior year.

Principal John Smith said crisis counselors were on hand to help students and faculty get through the day. Students were also able to write the family messages on several memorial walls throughout the school. Many of the messages were addressed to Marriott’s younger brother, Rob.

“Her brother didn’t attend school today and we had some communication with the family and they said some point in the near future he will return to school,” said Smith.

“Seeing something like this happen, it just really sort of makes you understand how the world works outside of the little bubble we have here in Westboro,” said Kevin Koenigsberg, a student.

The principal said the messages will be delivered to Marriott’s family at an appropriate time.