Community members gathered at the Harrington Protestant (Shaw’s) Cemetery on Sunday, August 17, for the annual memorial service. This year, the ceremony included special recognition of two long-serving individuals, William (Bill) Young and Vera Young.
Bill served as chairman of the cemetery association for more than 34 years and was involved for nearly four decades in total. Now in his 90s, Bill has stepped back from his duties.
A bench and plaque were dedicated in his honour to recognize his many years of service and commitment.
Vera, who has served as secretary and treasurer for approximately 28 years, will be stepping down at the end of August. She was presented with a plaque of appreciation for her long-time dedication.
The service included heartfelt words and blessings from Pastor Kelley Malloy of the United Church Laurentian Area Ministry, uplifting music from Victor Courte and Florian Gaudreau, and thanks to Bill and Vera from family and community members.
“We gather here to celebrate those impacts these people have had on us, sharing the stories of love, births, parties, and family reunions. There is a sacred stillness, a peace that holds every heart that enters,” said Malloy of the cemetery’s role in community life.
With these retirements, leadership of the association has transitioned to Allanna Courte, who became chair earlier this summer. Chantal Scapino will take on the combined role of secretary-treasurer at the end of the month.
“When Bill assumed the chair, Shaw consisted of just two sections. Over his 34 years, he negotiated the expansion of three additional ones. He sold plots, dug graves, buried our loved ones, maintained the tractor, levelled graves as needed, and arranged the engraving of headstones, all while outlasting at least two or three tractors,” Doug Campbell said. “Bill truly did it all.”
The service closed with reflection, music, and a shared community moment of connection in honour of both Bill and Vera’s legacies.
