Warren Memorial Hospital’s “Celebration of Lights” Honors Loved Ones and Community Service

With twinkling lights, heartfelt words, and the sound of children singing, Warren Memorial Hospital’s “Celebration of Lights” lit up the evening of December 4, 2025. The long-standing tradition, hosted by the Warren Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, brought together families, staff, volunteers, and community members to honor loved ones and celebrate the spirit of giving that defines the holiday season.

Held at the hospital campus at 5:00 p.m., the event began with a warm welcome from Jennifer Coello, Vice President of Valley Health and Administrator at Warren Memorial. “It’s truly wonderful to see so many friends and supporters gathered for this cherished tradition,” she said. “Since 1982, this event has helped us honor those who’ve touched our lives while also supporting vital hospital programs and scholarships.”

Each light on the tree symbolizes a donation made in honor or memory of someone special. These names are recorded in a “Book of Memories,” ensuring their legacies are preserved. Donations, starting at $5, support scholarships for local students pursuing healthcare careers and fund hospital improvement projects — including a volunteer-operated shuttle service and enhancements to patient areas.

The program continued with Opening Remarks by Denise Brown, Chair of the Celebration of Lights and longtime Auxiliary member. Brown highlighted the event’s importance and its deep roots in the Front Royal community. “We’ve been doing this since 1982,” she said, “and it’s amazing to see how it’s grown. The lights are symbolic, but their meaning runs deep.”

Invocation was led by Lillian Sloane, who offered a heartfelt prayer recognizing the contributions of past volunteers and the memory of loved ones. “We thank you for those who have left us, who have been warriors here,” she prayed. “We honor their service and ask your blessing on those who continue their work.”

A highlight of the evening was the performance by the E. Wilson Morrison Elementary School Chorus, under the direction of music teacher Thomas Hassett. The students performed several songs, including “First Day of Winter” and “A New Day,” which were chosen to reflect both the season and the spirit of hope. The young singers received enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

Following the music, Larry Thompson led the tree lighting, whose engineering work made the display possible. Attendees were invited out to the hospital porch to watch the lights glow — each one a memory, a name, a moment.

The evening also included a few special recognitions. A moment of remembrance honored Peg Goodyear, a dedicated Auxiliary volunteer who served for 20 years before retiring in 2002. She passed away earlier this year at age 88. “She always had something kind — and sometimes candid — to say,” Brown said with a smile. “We will miss her deeply.”

Another moment of appreciation was reserved for Scott Trivette, Project Manager for Volunteers with Valley Health. Trivette was recognized for his unwavering support of the hospital’s volunteer efforts. “Scott is very special to our volunteers,” said Brown. “His leadership and kindness mean so much to us all.”

Behind the scenes, many hands made the evening a success. Special thanks were given to Emily Burner of Valley Health Foundations, who helped manage donation letters and materials; to Kay Fritts and the Food Service Department for preparing refreshments; to Adam Bonicky for sound and technical support; and, of course, to the student chorus and their families.

Earlier this year, Auxiliary members Kathy Gilliam (President), Boo Campbell (Gift Shop Chair), and Denise Brown shared how the event continues to grow. Thanks to their hard work and donors’ generosity, this year’s student scholarships were increased from $1,000 to $1,500 per student at both Skyline and Warren County High Schools.

The event also helps recruit new volunteers — a vital need as the hospital continues expanding services. Currently, over 40 volunteers serve in roles ranging from the information desk to shuttle drivers, logging more than 5,700 hours of service this year alone.

As the lights flickered on and the community gathered on the porch to reflect, the message of the evening was clear: honoring the past, serving the present, and lighting the way for the future.

“Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,” the program concluded, “from all of us at the Warren Memorial Hospital Auxiliary.”