WASHINGTON - More than 1,000 people came to say their last goodbye to six people, three children and three adults, killed in a New Year's Day fire in NE.

The lives of Charles Smith, 72; Keith Nelson, 23; his girlfriend Tawana Gantt, 22; their daughter Kaniya Gantt, 4; Oscar Wilson III, 11; and Joseph Wilson, 10, were remembered in a funeral Saturday morning at Great Mount Calvary Holy Church on Rhode Island Avenue in NE.

"That's my family in there. It's just homes lost, families lost. It's emotional; it's really, really emotional," said Joyce Haynes, a family member.

For many the funeral was a time to heal. "All I wanted to do was just let them know that I love them and I care," said Donna Green, a family friend.

Family, friends and other community members, including D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, council chairman Vincent C. Gray and other council members packed the church to pay their respects.

"Walking pas the caskets and looking around it looks just like it's a family member of yours," said Gregory Young, a family friend.

And for most the six victims were just that--family. In life and now in death, many at the funeral said the victims impacted their lives in so many ways.

They say Charles Smith was a generous man known for opening his heart and home to many. Oscar Wilson III, known as 'little Butch,' was described as a child who loved to cook. His brother, 'little Joe,' loved sports. Family member Keith Nelson is described as a devoted father to 4-year-old Kaniya, also killed in the fire. And her mother, Tawana Gantt is remembered as a civic servant whose smile gave ease to all.

"That's my best friend; that's my other half and I will always love her," said Shawnese Stevens, Tawana's best friend.

The fire broke out at the home on Jackson Street after the extended family celebrated New Year's Eve together. According to fire officials, the fire was accidental and electrical in nature. The fire started in the basement and spread rapidly up to the roof.

"On New Year's Day they were together. They were together in that house and they're still together today," said Michael Brooks, Keith Nelson's uncle.

Oscar and Michelle Wilson, who survived the fire but lost their two sons that day, are also preparing for the second anniversary of their daughter's murder.

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