Hodges holds annual memory tree lighting ceremony

Hodges held its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in memory of lost loved ones Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. in the town park.

The ceremony began with music by Hill Country Gospel Group from First Baptist Church of Hodges, followed by Brianna Dean and Garrett Dean. The groups sang Christmas songs while the community members listened and participated in activities. Free refreshments included a table of coffee, hot chocolate, holiday desserts and finger foods.

The memorial ceremony marked the fifth year of coming together as a community to light candles, read aloud each name, release balloons and hang wooden angel ornaments on the tree. This year, more than one hundred ornaments decorated the tree. The number of ornaments has grown each year.

Six years ago, Kathy Wignton planted the tree in memory of her son, Joseph Wiginton. Her friends, Carla Woods, Linda Pharr and Heather Clinging, had a plaque made for placement in front of the tree with the words “In Memory of Joseph Wiginton.”

“It’s his memory tree,” Wiginton explained, “but I do it for the community too because we’ve lost so many in our community. We don’t want to forget them.”