OLD ORCHARD BEACH — “This is what love is. This is hope,” said Kaitlyn Budicky, facing a large crowd whose faces were barely distinguishable by the dim glow of candlelight.

It was about 8 p.m. Saturday, and Budicky was standing on Old Orchard Beach. While the cold waves crashed onto the sand behind her, she had to speak into a megaphone for the crowd of more than 100 people to hear.

Earlier in the night, the group had gathered at Memorial Park, where they each lit a candle to hold as they marched up Heath Street, along Saco Avenue, down Old Orchard Street and onto the beach.

The candlelight vigil, which Budicky helped organize, was held in honor of James Dyer, 23, of Saco, whose body was recovered from Portland Harbor on Feb. 20.

Dyer, who grew up in Old Orchard Beach, had been reported missing on New Year’s Day after spending New Year’s Eve in the Old Port. Police have said there is no evidence of foul play in Dyer’s death.

“It’s really great to have the community together, to be here for Jimmy and to show support for the Dyers,” said Budicky. “It brings tears to our eyes to see everybody come here and be together, and it means a lot not only to me, but especially to (Dyer’s family).”

Budicky, who managed the high school football team for which Dyer played, described Dyer as a kind, polite boy, and said he was like a brother to her.

“He was a wonderful boy, and for him to be gone so soon is really hard to take,” she said. “But it’s been great having everybody’s support.”

Dyer’s parents, Amy and Jim Dyer, also spoke during the vigil, thanking everyone for coming multiple times.

“Smile for Jimmy,” said Amy Dyer. “Everybody smile for Jimmy. Jimmy was always smiling. He loved being around people. He loved laughing. Please remember that. Keep smiling.”

Jim Dyer spoke of the closure that came with the discovery of his son’s body. “Now we can put him to rest,” he said.

To end the vigil, some released flowers into the ocean in honor of Dyer, despite having to get wet to do so.

Although the circum- stances of the event were tragic, many who attended the vigil said they were comforted by the show of support for Dyer’s family.

“It was amazing,” said Austin Dufour.

Dufour, who grew up with Dyer and had a photo on hand of the two of them in a crib together as infants, described him as someone who was always happy and loved to smile. “He was a lovable guy,” Dufour said.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. this Saturday at First Parish Congregational Church UCC, 12 Beach St., Saco.

— Staff Writer Angelo J. Verzoni can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 329 or [email protected].