Through fundraising efforts and City of Louisville funds, a memorial courtyard now welcomes visitors to the cemetery. The garden area consists of 10 trees representing each victim of the storm, raised beds,7 flagpoles for the US and state flag and for the branches of military service, granite benches and a monument bearing the names of the residents who lost their lives.
Senator Ward with the 1st Lady |
In attendance at the memorial service was Governor Phil Bryant and the First Lady Deborah Bryant. Mrs. Bryant holds a special place in the hearts of Winston County residents as she was actually in Louisville at the time of the tornado and stayed several days providing relief assistance. State Senator Giles Ward took time to thank the First Lady prior to the introduction of the Governor.
Governor Bryant recalled the events of April 28, 2014 and his
Governor Bryant |
Mayor Will Hill described the memorial courtyard and
acknowledged those who assisted with the project. Hill noted that the location of the courtyard was directly in the tornado's path as it ripped through Louisville. "The entrance (Courtyard) is a symbol of recovery and rebirth of a community of many bonds created over this past year."
Following the dedication speakers, family members of those who were lost during the storm were invited to witness the unveiling of the monument and the crowd gathered to see the veterans' tribute as the flags were raised to conclude the event.
The Sunshine Boys |
Special music was provided by "The Sunshine Boys". The four brothers- Josiah (14), Andre (11), Willie (10) and Ethan (7) are Louisville natives and the sons of Andre and Kateshia Esters. The Sunshine Boys won the children's competition at the 2015 Exclesisa Enterprise Showcase Extravaganza in 2015.