Brittany Murphy's Family: Light a Candle for Her this Christmas

Following the Christmas Eve burial of actress Brittany Murphy, who died at the too-young age of 32 last Sunday after an apparent cardiac arrest at her Los Angeles home, the Just Married star's family has released a statement to OK! regarding what occurred during Thursday's ceremony, and how they feel Brittany would best want to be remembered on this, her favorite of holidays.

Reads the statement in its entirety:

"Today a wife, a daughter, a niece, a cousin, a family member and dear friend to thousands was laid to rest.  Brittany was an incredibly loving and passionate person and an artist to her core- she loved acting, singing,  dancing, and performing.  There are no words that can truly express the devastation felt by Brittany’s husband, mother, and everyone who attended the intimate service.

At the funeral, Simon described his loving relationship with Brittany and how she was his best friend and soul mate.  He went on to say that mystery is the nature of love, and you never know when or where it will strike or how quickly it will be taken from you.  He also said that he knows the closeness and beauty of their love will live on forever.

Several of Brittany’s closest friends and her cousin also recalled their favorite memories, concluding with an excerpt from The Little Prince, one of her favorite books.

Brittany’s body was interred at Forest Lawn at twilight with the reading of the Kaddish and the singing of Amazing Grace.  A bright light that lit the world is forever dimmed, but will live on in the hearts of those that Brittany touched.

Christmas was Brittany’s favorite holiday. So the family asks that all those who wish to honor her light a candle and remember the beautiful angel that entertained, enlightened, and made the world a better place.

Born 1977 - Died 2009.  Brittany Murphy is survived by her husband Simon Monjack and her mother Sharon Murphy."