When one family lost their matriarch they finally realized the importance of taking care of each other and their community. That’s why the late Beverly Ann Barrow’s children and grandchildren took up her cause to host a Community Thanksgiving dinner each year.

“We just felt like we needed to pick up her mantle to help others in the local area,” said daughter Kim Codner. “I think she would be proud.”

Codner, along with her brother Tim Rice, and other family members served over one hundred people this year in their hometown. The Thanksgiving Dinner was for anyone who wanted to come to the Checotah Senior Community Center last Tuesday night to enjoy a free holiday meal with all the fixings and some good fellowship.

“I know a lot more people need help nowadays and so we just wanted to bless our community,” Tim said. “I’m glad we had a great turnout and expect more each year.”

All the food was prepared by Watsons Meat Market and homemade desserts were also a delight for many.

One grateful resident stated “I’m new to this area and a widow, so it was nice to get to come get a hot meal and meet new friends.”

LADONNA RHODES | STAFF

Feeding the community a warm meal for Thanksgiving is a legacy of love for one local family.