NORTON, Mass. (WPRI) — Dozens gathered in the bitter cold Monday evening to remember a 6-year-old Norton girl who died after being pulled from an icy river near her home last week. Josephine "Josie" Pinot passed away Friday nearly an hour after her parents first reported her missing from their Power Street home. Her disappearance triggered an extensive search of the nearby Barrowsville Pond and Wading River. Divers eventually found her unresponsive in the water near the bridge over Power Street, which is just across the street from her home. She was rushed to Sturdy Memorial Hospital where she was pronounced dead. "It is certainly a sad day in Norton," Norton Police Chief Brian Clark said shortly after learning Josie had died. "Our hearts go out to the family." Josie and her twin sister Rosie were both diagnosed with autism shortly after their third birthday, according to a GoFundMe page created on her family's behalf. Since both girls lacked awareness and tended to wander, their parents did everything they could to safeguard their home. But Josie unexpectedly "bolted out the back door" Friday afternoon and as gone within minutes, the GoFundMe explained. Despite the tragic loss, the family has received tremendous support from Norton and beyond. The GoFundMe has raised nearly $70,000, and a memorial of teddy bears, photographs, flowers and candles has amassed on the Power Street bridge in Josie's memory. Neighbors, family, friends and even complete strangers gathered outside St. Mary's Parish to honor Josie's memory. Candles flickered throughout the nearly silent crowd as Josie's parents tearfully thanked everyone for their overwhelming support. "Thank you for being here with us," her mother Tricia Sweeney said. "We appreciate everything and everyone," her father John Pinto added. Josie's parents intend to donate some of the money they receive to autism safety and awareness in their daughter's name. The remainder will go toward caring for Josie's twin sister and easing the financial burdens associated with the loss of a child. Her funeral will be held at 9 a.m. Friday at the Edwards Memorial Funeral Home in Milford, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Mary of the Assumption Church. Calling hours will take place Thursday between 4-8 p.m. at the Edwards Memorial Funeral Home. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW