Baptist Hospital Union County dedicates 2016 Tree of Love

New Albany, MS- The “Tree of Love” was dedicated Monday evening, Dec. 5, at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union County.

It was the 23rd such dedication in an annual fund raising event by the Baptist Memorial Hospital Union County Auxiliary. Baptist Administrator Walter Grace said during the dedication ceremony that more than $200,000 has been raised over the years by the Tree of Love fund drive.

Anyone who wishes to honor or memorialize a friend or loved one is encouraged to consider sponsoring a light on the tree. Funds raised with the Tree of Love are used in the Auxiliary’s philanthropic work, which benefits the hospital and its patients.

Each year the tree is dedicated to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the work of the hospital in the community. This year’s honoree is Barbara Owens, who retired last month as the hospital’s administrative director. While still a teenager, Owens began her 50 year career with Baptist, starting work as a ward clerk.