Nick Carter didn’t attend his sister Leslie’s funeral, saying he wanted to be there, but his “family has always had a complicated dynamic,” People is reporting. The private service, which lasted over an hour, was held near their father’s home in Mayville, New York, at the Freay Funeral Home. More than 60 people attended the service on February 4, 2012, four days after her death, which a police report linked to an apparent prescription drug overdose.

Nick had a scheduled concert date in Atlantic City on the day of Leslie’s funeral. He added that he wants “to thank everyone for all of their compassion and support that I have received during this most difficult time. There are many emotions for me surrounding the lost of my sister. I am trying to stay healthy, positive and focused.”

The Carters have a long history of troubles with each other, as Leslie and Nick’s brother Aaron underwent a stay in rehab. Aaron also fought with their mother, Jane, over money. Nick suffered a heart condition, which was exacerbated by drug and alcohol use.

For the eulogy, a Christian minister and several friends and family members, including Jane, Aaron and Leslie’s widower, Mike Ashton, spoke. Aaron reportedly spoke about how his sister was always there for him, and relayed their memories together. Ashton spoke about Leslie’s love for their 10-month-old daughter, and how much she loved being a mother.

Written by: Karen Benardello