Over 30 people gathered to celebrate and share memories of loved ones at Greene County Medical Center Wednesday as part of a Remembrance Ceremony.

The event was kicked off by the medical center’s retiring Foundation Director Hollie Roberts. She also recited a poem called “Something Beautiful Remains.” Next, Community Relations Director Carla Offenburger read off the names of the individuals that community members submitted this year that had passed away. There was 73 names submitted. Then medical center staff member and ordained minister Charlene Wolf gave a prayer and let audience members share stories of their loved ones that were no longer living.

Roberts told Raccoon Valley Radio that this event is impactful for her every year, but especially this year as she retires as the Foundation Director and coordinator of the event.

“Well this year there just seems like there’s been a lot of deaths in Greene County and I’ve been here since 1969 and so I know a lot of people. It’s meaningful to know the folks, to kind of know their stories and to give them the opportunity again to gather together and to do this special thing for their loved one.”

Roberts added that the ceremony was part of the Tree of Life fundraiser were individuals purchased ornaments to honor their loved ones. About $1,825 was raised and those funds will go toward the 3D Mammography campaign for the medical center.