More than 1,000 people turned out to celebrate the life and legacy of a Connecticut icon in Fairfield on Saturday.

The Leo Mahoney Arena at Fairfield University was packed with mourners who came to say farewell to Carolyn Vermont.

The 65-year-old nonprofit leader died last month while she was visiting family in Jamaica.

Those who knew Vermont said she was "endlessly devoted to the public she served."

"She had so much to give us, always smiling, like they said today, always everywhere," said Kaprice Miller, a friend of Vermont.

"She had the spirit and the DNA of our ancestors, and she carried that with her everywhere she went, creating access and ladders of opportunity for the downtrodden and the voiceless," said State Sen. Herron K. Gaston.

Attendees remembered the long-time head of Habitat For Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County for celebrating her Jamaican heritage through food, story and tradition.

Gov. Ned Lamont was also among the event's speakers.