NewsPre-K to 8
Students Plant Tree to Honor the Life of Mary Alice Babcock
Jun 1, 2000 8:00 AM
By Stefan Eady - Faculty
Lower School students celebrated the life of Mary Alice Babcock, daughter of Lower School teacher Lucy Babcock and Fine Arts Booster Club President Bob Babcock, by planting a tree in her memory Tuesday, May 23. Mary Alice, an eighth-grader who died Jan. 11 after collapsing during a basketball game, made a deep impact on those who knew her. She was generous, perceptive, and sensitive to the needs of others, those who knew her are quick to point out.
Students walked solemnly to the ceremony which featured the recitation of the poem, “Trees,” by fourth-grade students. Scripture from Ecclesiastes was read by Maddie Cannon, Brandon Martin, Nash Nance, and Payton Payne. Mary Alice’s brother, Allen, who graduated from Darlington May 20, sang “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” accompanied by students and faculty. Mary Alice’s other brother, Andrew, was also present for the ceremony.
The school blessing was changed and used as a benediction: “Our Father, for this day, for our families and friends, for Darlington Lower School, and for this tree, we thank you.” There was a silent dismissal following the ceremony.
Students walked solemnly to the ceremony which featured the recitation of the poem, “Trees,” by fourth-grade students. Scripture from Ecclesiastes was read by Maddie Cannon, Brandon Martin, Nash Nance, and Payton Payne. Mary Alice’s brother, Allen, who graduated from Darlington May 20, sang “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” accompanied by students and faculty. Mary Alice’s other brother, Andrew, was also present for the ceremony.
The school blessing was changed and used as a benediction: “Our Father, for this day, for our families and friends, for Darlington Lower School, and for this tree, we thank you.” There was a silent dismissal following the ceremony.
