Longtime volunteer Pam Holbrook earned the Heart of Hospice Award for 35 years of service. (Contributed)

Hospice of Stanly recently had a banquet to celebrate and recognize the agency’s volunteers.

The St. John’s Ringers, a handbell choir, provided entertainment for the volunteers and their guests.

“Our volunteer appreciation banquet is one of my favorite events,” said Executive Director Lori Thayer. “It would be difficult to measure the benefit of their time, kind words,and steady presence. Our staff and our patients are so grateful for these dedicated members of the community.”

Pam Mills

Lifetime Achievement Awards went to Kayren Brantley and Sharon Covery, each with 1,000 hours of service; Dianne Burton for 1,500 hours of service; and Pat Mills with 3,000 hours of service.

An award for service in direct patient care went to Kayren Brantley.

Service in administrative area was awarded to Pat Mills.

An award for holiday angel ornaments and other fundraising events went to Sharon Covey.

Honored for five years of service were Kathy Johnson, Martha ONeill, Sharon Covey and Kristen Laton.

Honored for 10 years of service were Lou Page and Autie Furr.

Maxine Underwood and Anne Huie were honored for 15 years of service.

Hazel Little was honored for 25 years of service to Hospice.

“We were proud to award Pam Holbrook the ‘Heart of Hospice’ honor,” said Hailey Black, volunteer coordinator. “This award has only been given one other time in the history of Hospice of Stanly. It requires much time and dedication for a volunteer, but Pam was very deserving. She has served well over 5,250 hours, working in many different capacities including our board of directors during her 35 years of volunteer services to our organization. Hospice of Stanly is very lucky to have such dedicated and committed volunteers who help the seriously ill in our community.”

For more details on the volunteer program at Hospice of Stanly, call 704-983-4216 or visit Prospective Volunteers (hospiceofstanly.org).