Avery County Government is extending an invitation to the community for “A Time of Remembrance” this Sunday, September 27, at 2 p.m. at Avery Square. The gathering will honor the lives lost during Hurricane Helene and will include the dedication of a memorial bench in their names. This event approaches the two-year anniversary of the devastating storm that brought historic flooding and reshaped the region.
County officials have described the upcoming gathering as an opportunity for the community to come together for remembrance, reflection, and healing as the significant anniversary draws near. The occasion serves as a moment to collectively acknowledge the impact of Hurricane Helene and to support one another in its aftermath.
The newly dedicated memorial bench will serve as a lasting tribute to those Avery County residents who tragically perished during Hurricane Helene. The names etched into the bench are Kimberly Smith Ashby, David Allen Carver, Billy Joe Calloway, Melissa Sue Quinn, Charlene Wilbur, Russell Dale Wilbur, and Robert Butch Ross. These individuals are being remembered by their community through this permanent installation.
In addition to the names of the victims, the memorial bench also carries a verse from the Bible. Specifically, it features a passage from Matthew 5:8, which states: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” This inscription serves as an integral part of the memorial's design and message.
The entire event is being held under the theme “Their Light Remains,” a poignant message underscoring the enduring memory of those lost. This dedication is also part of Avery County's broader “Our Mountains Remember” effort, an initiative designed to commemorate the two years that have passed since the historic flooding events profoundly altered the landscape and lives within the region. The county's efforts aim to provide a structured way for residents to collectively process the past and look towards continued healing.
The community is encouraged by Avery County Government to attend this significant occasion to collectively remember those affected and to participate in this moment of healing and dedication. The Sunday afternoon event provides a space for residents to reflect on the past two years and honor the memory of the seven individuals.
