THE family of a professor who was found dead while attending a conference has broken their silence on the death of their loved one.

Dr. David Hanbury, a professor at Averett University in Danville, Virginia, about 8 miles north of the North Carolina border, was found dead on Sunday while attending a conference in Orlando, Florida.

Hanbury, who was attending the Southeastern Psychological Association Conference, was last seen on Friday evening, Averett University said.

The private Baptist university confirmed Hanbury, an eight-year associate professor and co-chair of the psychology department, was found dead on Sunday.

A cause of death was not immediately made available.

Orlando police said Hanbury’s death does not appear to be suspicious.

Hanbury’s father, Jack, mourned the loss of his youngest son, “Sally and I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of prayers and support during our search for our missing son, David.

“Sadly we learned that he has passed away. We are heartbroken at the loss of our youngest son.

“God never created a kinder, sweeter person. Maybe that is why he was called.”

Hanbury’s older brother said the family was struggling with their loved one’s death.

“Unfortunately we learned this afternoon that he is no longer with us,” brother JJ Hanbury wrote in a Facebook post.

“We’re all struggling and this is so hard. I’ve never seen through anything like this.

“I don’t know what I am going to do without my youngest brother that drove me insane all the time but my world will never be the same without him.

“He was only 37 and supposed to be with me for life. Please send me and my family all the prayers, love, positive vibes, or whatever you believe in. We are all in unbearable pain.

“Rest in peace, David Hanbury. I love you and hate myself for not telling you that before. My heart is broken and I miss you so much.”

Dr. Tiffany M. Franks, the president of Averett University, said the school will hold a vigil for Hanbury on Monday afternoon on campus.