Community Care & Connections

We are seeing amazing community connections at work every single day. While living in isolation or following social distancing practices, showing support and love to family and friends who’ve lost loved ones during the time of the COVID 19 crisis is challenging but very necessary. Goodness shows up on all fronts. Citizens from small communities and large cities are figuring it out. They are inventive, finding creative solutions to pay tribute to close friends who’ve passed during these difficult times.

Gathering in the neighborhood he built were friends of Paul Rose. One could stand on the doorstep and glance into the neighborhood to find residents standing in front of their homes to bid farewell to their friend. A moving, picturesque sight to see, a entire neighborhood lined with people who have been directly impacted by Paul. He was extremely influential to them. After all, he built the house they have made their home. While a gathering at the local funeral home where stories could be shared would have been optimal, the former is the way it has to be for now. But WOW, the community responded just as expected: with heart and love! ​

In the small town of Shipman, first responders assembled to show their support of one of their own, Larry Pittman, who passed during this unprecedented time. Saluting their comrade, fire department chiefs and volunteers from the region lined the street with their equipment: fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles. Our American flag is displayed with honor, giving credence to the comradery that is ever so present in times such as these. It was quite a site to see.  (Photo compliments of Andrea Powers). 

Congregating on State Street in Jerseyville were many farmer friends of Joel Randolph, paying their respects to the family, as gathering at the funeral home is simply not an option at this time. No doubt Joel was loved by so many, as farm trucks and equipment could be seen far and wide as the procession traveled through town. (Photo compliments to Michelle Verity).

So many challenges that no one could foresee as a result of the response to COVID 19; however, the loving and supportive response by communities is nothing short of AMAZING! It’s simply a reminder that people are good, really good! They will find a way!  

While we wish the current circumstances weren’t the current circumstances, all those who’ve suffered the loss of a loved one during this time, please know you are in the thoughts, hearts, and prayers of so many.