As we are entering another grass cutting season and a new decade, let us pause for a moment and give thanks for all we have been blessed with and look to our future with total optimism.
When we reflect over the last year, we are astounded by all that was accomplished to improve our Knotts Island Community Cemetery, and we are so very grateful for the community’s generosity.
As we have said before, absolutely none of this would have happened without community support. Be it pride in community, heritage, personal dedication or preserving history, your support is evident. The number of contributors grew, as did the number of people who chose to give in memory of a loved one in lieu of flowers.
We secured a contract with James White III of SeaGreen Lawns, Inc. We found them to be professional, dependable and a pleasure to work with. Should we someday find it necessary to continue or add on to the wall, he constructed it in such a way that new work could start directly where he left off.
Not only was the retaining wall replaced, but drainage was improved, as well. In addition, the collapsed culvert on the north end of the cemetery was replaced and new gravel and columns were put in place. Several grave markers were righted and repaired. Based upon information we were given by one of the monument companies, this is a common and ongoing issue with older headstones. The good news is this is usually a simple problem to correct.
We also acknowledge Mr. Jody Johnson, Mr. & Mrs. Richard Williams, Mr. & Mrs. Wiley Melton and Mr. David Barham. These property owners adjoin the cemetery. Their support and cooperation as good neighbors have contributed to the success of each and every project.
We would also be amiss if we did not acknowledge John Doucette of The Princess Anne Independent News for his continued media support, which spread the news of our project.
We also wish to acknowledge the support we received from both Knotts Island Baptist Church and Knotts Island United Methodist Church. Together, these congregations with the Lord’s guidance were a huge part of last season’s success. The fundraiser they held was uplifting emotionally and financially, as funds raised offset the wall construction. In turn, that allowed for lawn maintenance to continue through the remainder of the grass cutting season.
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you once again.
— Jimmy and Barbara Cason, Knotts Island, N.C.
The Knotts Island Community Cemetery relies upon contributions for its maintenance and care. Checks can be made payable to the Knotts Island Cemetery Fund, 129 Wards Road, Knotts Island, N.C., 27950.
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