By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

Linda Nolen Learning Center students and supporters who have passed away will forever be memorialized after the school dedicated its new memory garden during an Aug. 31 ceremony.

During the ceremony, LNLC Principal Michelle Shepherd said the garden, which is shaped like a heart, will ensure the students, parents and supporters who have passed away “will never be forgotten on this campus.”

“This garden is dedicated to the loved ones who preceded us in reuniting with our heavenly father,” Shepherd said. “How we miss them.”

Volunteers constructed the garden over the past year using donations from the Inverness Home Depot store, Lawn Masters, the city of Pelham and All-Water Irrigation. While the garden was being constructed, parents were able to make donations and request special items be placed in the garden in memory of their students.

In addition to the heart-shaped sidewalk, a pergola and a water fountain, the garden features several areas meant to appeal to LNLC students’ senses.

“What a wonderful day this is. What a wonderful tribute to all involved,” said Shelby County Schools Superintendent Randy Fuller. “We are so proud of the staff here and of the parents for the support they give. We want to have a great celebration here today.”

During the ceremony, LNLC staff members presented blue roses to the family members of students memorialized in the garden, and showcased areas of the garden dedicated to school supporters.

A bird bath and child’s bench was dedicated to LNLC parent Linda Moran, who helped to organize and kick off the garden project. Moran helped to complete much of the garden before she passed away earlier this year.

“I worked with her for a year on this garden,” said LNLC instructional aide Cheri Brennan. “This garden would not be here without Linda.”