The New Jersey college student who was strangled death and later found in park before Thanksgiving will be laid to rest a week before Christmas.

A wake for Sarah Butler, the 20-year-old Montclair woman whose body was found in a park in West Orange on Dec. 1, will be held at St. Mark’s Methodist Church in Montclair Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. The church will hold a funeral service Friday at 11 a.m, reports NJ.com.

A family friend set up a GoFundMe account to raise money to help cover her burial and other expenses. In 10 days, it raised nearly $14,000.

Her accused killer, Khalil Wheeler-Weaver, 20 of East Orange, has pleaded not guilty to murdering the beloved Butler.

Wheeler-Weaver is charged with murder and disturbing human remains.

He is being held on $1 million bail, cash or bond.

 

Chenelle Covin women of Color STEM Award honoree

By Chenelle Covin

Chenelle Covin is an award-winning social entrepreneur and writer. Miss Covin prides herself on being an experienced communications professional, committed to sustaining positive relationships within the community, writing thought-provoking stories, and helping brands enhance their digital presence.