A camellia tree was planted in the Cottageville Elementary School garden on Monday Jan. 13, to remember fourth-grade student Lauren Drawdy.
The Drawdy family suffered a terrible tragedy on January 1, 2020, when Lauren (Lola) and her father, Kim Drawdy, were killed in a hunting accident.
Monday school classmates, teachers and Principal Janis Headden gathered around the planted tree to honor Lauren’s memory. The children were given the opportunity to talk about Lauren. During the ceremony, Headden read a poem and told the children that the tree resembled Lauren. The petals on the flowers were pink because that was Lauren’s favorite color. The tree would bloom and make people happy just like she did. Headden also remarked that Lauren was a happy child, loving and very forgiving. All students could follow this example.
Robert Buchanan, fourth-grade teacher said, “She was a very happy-go-lucky child and very confident. She loved hunting and loved cheerleading. She was always cheerful, always laughing.”
Abigail Moncus, reading and math teacher, said, “On the back of my door, I have a sign that says ‘It’s a beautiful day.’ Every day Lauren would read that sign to me, and tell me ‘It’s a beautiful day.’ She was always very positive. She enjoyed music, and she loved the outdoors. She was always very sweet.”
Taylor Garraffa was Lauren’s third-grade teacher. She remembered Lauren’s personality. “She was extremely sweet, and always smiling. She loved cheerleading. She was very kind to others, and she had a very forgiving soul. A child could do something bothersome to her, but Lauren’s response would always be ‘that’s OK, he/she’s still my friend.’ She always had a positive outlook, and was thoughtful of others.”
A memorial stone will be placed in the garden at Cottageville Elementary School soon so that everyone will know that the tree is planted in Lauren’s memory.
Family and friends are attempting to raise funds for Lauren’s burial expenses. Donations are needed, as well as gift certificates, gift cards, and items that can be raffled off.
On Saturday Jan. 11, family and friends gathered in Cottageville to raise funds to help the family.
They will continue this project this Saturday Jan. 18. All those wishing to help in this endeavor can bring donations to Cottageville at the vacant lot next Genesis Car Sales starting at 10 a.m.
Friends will be there to collect items or funds. Checks may be made out to Lauren’s mother, Mary Bowers. Any donation will be greatly appreciated.
For more information contact Liz Shealy, 863-245-34723, or Teresa Martin, 843-214-0658.
