On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, the residents of Asheville came together in a heartfelt show of solidarity and remembrance during a candlelight vigil to honor those who tragically lost their lives to Tropical Storm Helene. The storm, which wreaked havoc across the region, left behind a path of destruction and heartache, yet it also brought the community closer together in grief and support.
The vigil, held at the city’s central park, saw hundreds of attendees, including city officials, local heroes, and grieving families. With candles flickering in the cool evening breeze, the atmosphere was one of somber reflection and collective mourning, as the community sought to find comfort in each other’s presence.
A Community United in Grief
Asheville City Councilwoman Maggie Ullman, dressed in blue, addressed the crowd with words of strength and resilience. Her message of unity resonated deeply with those gathered, as she acknowledged the pain of loss while urging the community to hold onto hope and continue rebuilding. She emphasized that even in the darkest times, Asheville’s spirit remains unbroken.
Among those in attendance was Mayor Esther Manheimer, who stood silently with tears in her eyes as Asheville Fire Chief Michael Cayse spoke. Chief Cayse's words paid tribute not only to the lives lost but also to the courage and dedication of first responders who risked their lives to protect the city during the storm. He reminded the crowd that though the storm has passed, its impact will be felt for years to come, and it is now the responsibility of the community to rebuild and heal together.
Symbols of Remembrance
A central feature of the vigil was a large memorial wreath, delicately crafted from fallen branches—symbolic of nature’s destructive power, yet also a testament to the resilience of life. The wreath sat solemnly below the stage, serving as a visual reminder of the lives that had been taken by Tropical Storm Helene. Its natural form represented both loss and the potential for regrowth, a fitting metaphor for Asheville’s journey toward healing.
As candles were passed from person to person, illuminating the park with a soft, warm glow, Rae Patton was seen having her candle lit by a fellow attendee. This simple act of passing the flame became a powerful symbol of how the community continues to support one another, even in the face of overwhelming tragedy.
Acts of Kindness and Support
Throughout the vigil, volunteers played an essential role in ensuring that the evening was not only a time for reflection but also a moment of support. Volunteers from World Central Kitchen, including Liz Villarreal and Katie Kasben, served food to attendees, ensuring that the community was nourished both emotionally and physically. Their contributions were a reminder of the importance of coming together to care for one another, especially in times of crisis.
Shalene Hill was seen embracing a fellow resident, a gesture that encapsulated the raw emotion of the evening. These moments of connection, whether through a shared candlelight or a comforting hug, underscored the importance of community during difficult times.
Moving Forward
Asheville has weathered many storms, both literal and figurative, and Tropical Storm Helene will be remembered as one of the most devastating in recent history. Yet, the city’s ability to come together in the aftermath shows the strength of its people. City Manager Debra Campbell, holding her own candle, reflected this resilience as she stood with the community in solidarity.
The candlelight vigil not only honored the lives lost but also marked a turning point for the city—a moment where mourning gave way to hope, where the pain of loss was met with the promise of rebuilding.
In the days ahead, Asheville will continue to come together to rebuild homes, restore infrastructure, and support those who have been deeply affected by the storm. But on this night, they stood still—united by their shared grief and the flickering light of hope, as the city looked toward the future with strength, compassion, and determination.