Curtis Jenkins III went missing on July 1. Police say he was kidnapped and later killed.
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On Sunday, family and friends gathered to celebrate what would have been his 21st birthday.
"It's been a long week and real hard for us to get through this, but I feel like together we're stronger," said Sydney Dee, a friend of Curtis.
Police believe Jenkins, who worked in Camden's clerk's office and had a side business selling home-cooked meals, was lured to his death. Sources say his father received a photo of Jenkins after the captors demanded ransom.
On Sunday night, his English teachers read a paper Jenkins wrote, telling them he discovered his purpose was to make people happy.
Police arrested and charged 32-year-old Brandon Beverly with Jenkins' murder.
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Authorities are still searching for a man who they believe committed a robbery with Beverly. They won't say if he is connected to Jenkins' killing.
Jenkins' aunt had a message for those at the vigil.
"I encourage you guys to lift our youth up, give somebody a hug, tell them how special they look. Tell them how beautiful they are," she said.
Curtis Jenkins III was the grandson of Camden City Council President Curtis Jenkins.