Karina Vetrano's family and friends held a vigil in Queens on Wednesday to mark one year since she was killed.
Dozens gathered outside Vetrano's Howard Beach home and walked to nearby St. Helen's Church for a memorial service in her honor.
After the vigil, participants released purple balloons into the sky.
The 30-year old had went for a run in Spring Creek Park and never returned home.
Hours later, detectives discovered her body in a marshy area.
Vetrano's parents said while nothing will ease the pain of losing their daughter, they were grateful to have a strong support system.
"It says a lot about our daughter, says a lot about our daughter," said Phil Vetrano, Karina's father. "Very powerful, very powerful for us, my baby."
"My daughter was a good, decent, beautiful person. She met with evil, and this neighborhood is supporting us and saying, 'We won't put up with that.' That's all it's about," said Cathie Vetrano, Karina's mother. "We won't put up with evil."
In February, 20-year old Chanel Lewis of East New York was arrested in connection with Vetrano's death.
He pleaded not guilty to murder and sexual abuse charges.
If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life in prison.
Lewis is due back in court Sept.7. The Vetrano family said they will be there.