ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Funeral services were held Wednesday for Phoebe Jonchuck, the 5-year-old girl who authorities say died after her father tossed her from a St. Petersburg bridge into Tampa Bay last week.
Family members described Phoebe's relationship with her father, Jon Jonchuck, as loving, though he's sitting in jail charged in her killing.
Phoebe's family addressed claims by people who said they knew the family and the vibrant little girl was suffering for the weeks and months leading up to her death.
"She truly was loved and had a smile on her face and a smile that would light up a room," said Phoebe's uncle, Bryan Morris.
"I gave her everything I could and all the love that I could ever give," said her grandmother, Michelle Jonchuck.
The family made a point to say she was even loved by her father who is now charged with her murder.
"The child loved her daddy, and the daddy was never mean to her," said Michelle Jonchuck. "Obviously, there has to be something that snapped. He was even trying to get close to God. That is why I don't understand."
Channel 9 learned Phoebe had been staying with her grandmother until July and even spent the Sunday before her death with her family.
"I have to forgive (my son), because I won't go to heaven if I do not forgive him," said Michelle Jonchuck.
Michelle Jonchuck said she has not yet spoken to her son. Family members said because of social media, they have received messages from people all over the world wanting to help.
They have asked people to donate to Phoebe's school, because she loved learning.
Donations may be made in Phoebe's name to:
Cleveland Elementary School
723 E. Hamilton Ave.
Tampa, FL 33604
For information, call 813-276-5583.
WFTV
