Family and friends held a memorial and thanksgiving service on Saturday to celebrate the life of Joanna Abernethy, 51, who died on August 9 during an American cross-country cycling trip.

A tribute from Ms Abernethy's sister, Leah, described her deep love for her daughter, Orly, who was her sister's proudest achievement.

Ms Abernethy's niece, Millie, read a tribute from Orly describing her as the "best mum in the world" who had made her childhood so much fun.

Millie said her aunt had been doing something for herself and others and was probably at one of the happiest points in her life.

Friends remembered Ms Abernethy's lust for life, love of adventure and travel as well as her burning passion for world peace and desire to make the world a better place.

Her brother Mark paid tribute to his "dear sister" and her incredible journey in the world and how she touched their lives. He said she had embodied an "incredible compassion" and he could still remember her face smiling warmly.

Ms Abernethy was remembered as a gorgeous girl with "wild curly hair" and a friend who always let people know they were loved.

Ms Abernethy was on a 6200km solo cycling trip across America from Astoria, near Portland, Oregon, to Washington DC to pay tribute to Martin Luther King jnr. She was also fundraising for

several charities including the King Centre in Georgia which helps disadvantaged children get a good education.

A close friend of Ms Abernethy plans to complete the trip in her honour.

An extract from Dr King's I have a dream speech was read at the memorial service at the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

Ms Abernethy was remembered as a charitable and passionate woman, who walked across America in the name of peace more than two decades ago.

Childhood friend Cynthia Coop said Ms Abernethy was like a sister to her and she touched many people's lives.