A hidden gem, tucked away in a secluded area, is our memorial garden – a special place of remembrance for solitude and reflection. In 1998, during each new member class Rev. Barbara Child asked those joining the church to consider doing a service project for the church. A member of the Care Committee suggested establishing a UUCT memorial garden, and members of Rev. Child’s new member class formed the Memorial Garden Committee. Peg Rombach-Riggs prepared a sketch and plot plan that was submitted to the Board of Trustees, who approved the plans and designated a portion of church property for a beautiful memorial garden with individual stones with stained glass designs.  Congregation members were offered an opportunity to memorialize a family member by purchasing a paver for the garden.

Initially the glass/mosaic designs were made by member Carol Chaney.  Shortly thereafter, Susan Miller volunteered her expertise to design and fabricate each round paver after it was engraved with the name of the person being memorialized.  Upon Susan Miller’s death in 2006, Mary Francis took up the task of creation of the pavers.

In 2013 a donation enabled the UUCT to purchase a pergola to cover the walkway leading to the garden.   We have some great ideas for additional improvement in the future.  The Memorial Garden Committee that maintains the area currently comprises Fran Davin, Joyce Formica, Mary Francis, Marla Frazer, and Grant Wilson.