MAIN STREET CHILLICOTHE’S MEMORY TREE DEDICATION & LIGHTING

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, Main Street Chillicothe held its 10th Annual Memory Tree Dedication & Lighting ceremony at Silver Moon Plaza. This cherished tradition provides a meaningful way to honor and remember loved ones who are missed during the holiday season. Each ornament placed on the tree represents a family member or friend who has passed, offering attendees a heartfelt opportunity for reflection.

The 45-minute ceremony honored the memories of 85 loved ones in a heartfelt tribute. Main Street intern Zoey Warren greeted attendees with programs and served complimentary hot cocoa, provided by Missouri Coffee Co. Main Street Executive Director Tomie Walker opened the event with a warm welcome and introductions. Ken Lauhoff delivered an inspiring dedication, including a heartfelt prayer, while Zeb Yoko’s cello performance added a beautiful touch of Christmas spirit. KCHI Radio General Manager Patti Leatherman and Second Ward Councilman Weston Baker read the names of the honorees, with a bell chime marking each name, rung by Chillicothe Development Corporation Vice President Kevin Murray.

This year's ornaments were crafted by Main Street staff, Main Street Promotions committee, volunteer Cheryl Evans, and the Grand River Technical School’s business leadership class. Ornaments were thoughtfully hung on the Memory Tree prior to the lighting by Main Street volunteers Chuck Erke, Isaac Bailey, Kevin Murray, and Main Street staff. 

The Memory Tree will remain on display through January 2025. Afterward, arrangements will be made for ornament pickup at the Main Street office, ensuring each memento is returned to its owner.

Main Street Chillicothe thanks everyone who participated in this touching event, celebrating the lives and memories of those we hold dear during the holiday season.

Main Street Chillicothe is a non-profit organization committed to the historical preservation and economic development of our downtown district. We support arts, culture, entertainment, and business in downtown Chillicothe! Our work is supported by essential community partnerships and generous donations. If you value our vibrant and beautiful downtown, consider joining us. www.downtownchilli.com

As a Missouri Main Street Accredited program, MAIN STREET CHILLICOTHE is a recognized, leading program among the state network of more than 50 districts and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.

Special thanks to our partners, our many "Friends of Main Street" supporters, and our volunteers who make it all happen. This place matters and so do you.