Plans are being finalized for this year’s Community Prayer Tree, a tradition that remembers the lives of Ryan Barrett, George Cecil, and James “Bo” Ussery. 

The three linemen lost their lives after they were struck by an impaired driver while helping to restore power in the Florida Panhandle in the aftermath of 2018’s Hurricane Michael.

Barrett, of Roanoke Rapids, and the son of Jodi and Thomas Barrett, worked for Lee Electrical Construction, Cesil, a 52-year-old foreman from Bertie County native who lived in Colerain.

Ussery was a 60-year-old West Florida Electrical employee.

While many of the traditions will remain the same, for the first time the freshly-cut Fraser fir tree from western North Carolina will not be placed beside the Barrett’s home off Old Farm Road. Instead, East 10th Street Christian Church offered its lot at 1207 East Tenth Street for improved parking and a more visible space for people to visit, reflect, and pray.

Two public gatherings will be held, both from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., when friends, families, and neighbors can meet, sing, hear a devotion, and lift prayers together. 

Visitors are also welcome to stop by at any time throughout the season to place a prayer tag on the tree, whether in remembrance, thanksgiving, or hope. 

Tags will be on site for use on the tree. 

The first gathering will take place on Monday, December 1, when Halifax Academy’s elementary students will share a special program of Christmas music, followed by a devotional message from Jason Yeatts, pastor of East 10th Street Christian Church.

The second gathering will be held on Monday, December 22, featuring traditional Christmas carols led by the Worship Team of First Christian Church, followed by a devotion from Justin Fender, youth pastor of First Christian Church. 

That evening, luminaries will glow around the tree, honoring the memory of Barrett, Cecil, and Ussery, along with many other loved ones remembered.

“The Prayer Tree was created to provide a place for the Roanoke Valley community to come together in prayer during the season of Christmas,” the Barretts said. “The idea has inspired others as well, with additional Prayer Trees now shining in places such as Alabama, West Virginia, and added this year, Warrenton, North Carolina.”

Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather.