Mary Bailey

The skies parted just enough to give Shepherd’s Cove Hospice in Albertville perfect weather for their annual Memorial Day Remembrance event held on the front grounds.

This yearly event is a time of solemn reflection and gratitude as they honor the lives of the veterans they had the privilege to serve over the past year.

Stacy Johnson, Bereavement Director with Shepherd’s Cove Hospice welcomed those in attendance to the event.

“On behalf of the entire team at Shepherd’s Cove Hospice I just want to thank you for entrusting the care of your loved ones to our team. Words are really inadequate to be able to express what it means to us to care for your loved one in such a time that you allow us to,” Johnson said. “I just want to commend you as caregivers, as family members, thank you so much.”

The free event honored 73 veterans who were served in Hospice care at the facility.

Along with the roll call of veterans, there was also a presentation of colors. Across the front lawn is also 73 white crosses bearing the names of each veteran. 

Vernon Oliver, Chaplain of the Jimmy Harris VFW Post 6837 served as the Master of Ceremonies. 

“We have gathered in this place today to not only pay tribute and give honor to the memory of the countless soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coastguardsmen that fought for and paid the ultimate price for our freedom,” Chaplain Oliver said. “These 73 veterans and their families have served this country and allowed us to serve them during their final days. These 73 veterans and their families deserve so much more than we can give. At last, I want to express my gratitude to them not only serving but also for also giving us the opportunity, however short in time it was to get to know them and their loved ones.”

Shalon Steed, Marketing and Sales Director for Shepherd’s Cove Hospice said Shepherd’s Cove is a “We Honor Veterans” four-star partner. 

“We Honor Veterans is a national initiative that empowers hospices and community organizations to meet the unique needs of America’s Veterans and their families by offering guidance and resources focused on respectful inquiry, compassionate listening, and grateful acknowledgment so that Veterans can be guided toward a more peaceful ending,” Steed said. “Let us remember together.”

Tuesday’s event was co-hosted by the Jimmy Harris VFW Post 6837 of Boaz. 

A free reception was catered and sponsored by Local Joe’s of Albertville. 

The white crosses will remain on the front lawn through June 3 as a quiet tribute.