There is an old adage about the relative strength of trees and which is the strongest. It suggests that the mighty oak is the strongest of all trees: Tall, thick, sturdy ... But the contrasting view is that the Willow is the strongest. Supple, swaying, flexible ... When the wind is severe - damaging, hostile, punishing and harsh - the oak will withstand up to a point, but then snap. The Willow on the other hand will yield and bend and nearly touch the ground, and after the wind, will stand upright and resume its place.
Tell Us Your Story
We invite you to submit a nomination letter and share why you believe your end-of-life caregiver deserves to be honored.
Honoring Compassionate Caregivers
The Willow Award celebrates end-of-life caregivers who go above and beyond, providing exceptional compassion and support during life’s final journey. Now, you have the chance to share their story and recognize a deserving caregiver!
The Willow Award Goes to Oklahoma
Grace Hospice Staff
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Grace Hospice, Oklahoma
“Thank you for seeing me, not just as a diagnosis, a chart, or something to fix, but as a person. If you ever wonder whether what you do matters, it does. You did.””
— Dawson, Willow Award Nomination 🌿
For Dawson and his mother, Tami Sorrells, the team at Grace Hospice provided far more than medical care. They offered compassion, dignity, and a genuine human connection during a difficult journey. Through thoughtful conversations, patience, and individualized attention, Dawson's caregivers made him feel seen, heard, and valued. Over time, his medical team became his community, sharing everyday moments and building relationships that brought comfort and meaning to his life. Their kindness left a lasting impression on both Dawson and his mother, reminding us that exceptional care is about treating the whole person, not just the diagnosis.
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Willow Award Welcomes the Central Iowa Chapter
The Willow Award is proud to welcome its newest chapter in Central Iowa, presented by Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory and Boesen Florist.
Led by Lanae Strovers, the Central Iowa Chapter will give families a meaningful way to recognize the exceptional hospice and end-of-life caregivers who made a difference during some of life’s most difficult moments.
"Facing the impending loss of a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences any family can endure," says John Parrish. "It is our privilege to serve these families, and we hear countless stories about the extraordinary healthcare professionals who have made a difference in their journey. Through the Willow Award, families can honor those caregivers and share the gratitude they may not otherwise have the opportunity to express."
Know a caregiver who made a difference?
Submit a nomination today at WillowAward.com and follow the
Willow Award: Central Iowa Chapter on Facebook.
THE MEANING
"The Oak and the Willow"
- The Need for Willow Tree Faith,
Virginia Theological Seminary
Jon Wolfe, PhD, PhamD
2026 Willow Award Honoree
UAMS College of Pharmacy
“For making education about death and dying a priority, in order to help healthcare professionals serve patients, families, and the community better in regards to end-of-life care.”
— D. Micah Hester, PhD 🌿
Dr. Jon Wolfe, PhD, PharmD has spent decades helping healthcare professionals better understand the needs of patients and families at the end of life. During his 30 years serving UAMS, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, and the College of Pharmacy, Dr. Wolfe helped pioneer education focused on death, dying, and compassionate end-of-life care. Alongside Dr. Reed Thompson, he developed a course that continues at UAMS today—helping future healthcare professionals approach life’s final chapter with greater knowledge, understanding, and compassion.
Kristy Burroughs and Cynthia Diggs, Co-supervisors
2026 Willow Award Honoree
House of 3 in Little Rock
“Kristy and Cynthia cared for Mom as though she were a neighbor or family friend. Their compassion and competence gave me complete peace of mind, and I will always be grateful they were part of her final months.””
Kristy Burroughs and Cynthia Diggs, co-supervisors of House of Three, created a warm and welcoming home where Anna Templeton received compassionate, attentive care during the final 19 months of her life. Through their leadership, professionalism and personal kindness, they gave Anna’s family comfort and complete peace of mind.
— Leslie Templeton, Anna’s daughter 🌿
Conway Regional Labor & Delivery Team
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Conway Regional Hospital, Conway
“The Conway Regional Labor and Delivery Team made the most difficult and tragic experience of our lives as beautiful and gentle as it could possibly have been.”
”
Lauren and Bradly Brogdon nominated the Conway Regional Labor and Delivery Team for the extraordinary compassion shown during the birth and loss of their son, James “August” Brogdon. Every caregiver—including nurses, physicians and environmental services staff—honored August as their cherished son and treated him with dignity and tenderness. The team gave the family unhurried time to bathe, rock, sing to and hold August, creating precious memories they will carry forever. They especially recognize Dr. Keitha Holland for her empathy, guidance and unwavering support throughout their journey.
Lauren and Bradly Brogdon 🌿
Parents to James "August" Brogdon
Melissa Hight
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Hight House, Conway
"Melissa honored my mother's life with unwavering compassion until the very end. They say angels walk among us, and for our family, Melissa was one of them."
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"When our family entrusted our mother, Petra, to Melissa Hight, we never imagined how deeply she would touch our lives. Melissa loved our mother as if she were her own, surrounding her with compassion, dignity, and unwavering kindness through every stage of her journey with dementia. From lovingly calling her "Pity Pat" to never leaving her side in her final hours, Melissa gave our mother the priceless gift of a peaceful passing. The comfort she brought to our entire family is something we will carry with us forever, and our only regret is that we didn't find Melissa sooner."
Anna Clemmons 🌿
On behalf of the family of Petra Valdez
Dr. Olivia Irby
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Arkansas Children's Hospital,
Little Rock
"The impact you had on our family goes far beyond medical treatment— you gave us clarity, dignity, and peace in our most painful moments.”
"When the Roark family’s healthy young daughter, Reighny, was rushed to the ACH PICU following a tragic drowning accident, Dr. Olivia Irby met them with extraordinary compassion, honesty, and unwavering dignity during the darkest hours of their lives. She made the courageous decision to continue lifesaving efforts when others may not have, while guiding the family through heartbreaking medical realities with transparency, grace, and kindness. Her compassionate care extended far beyond medicine, helping the family find peace in an unimaginable loss and comfort in Reighny’s legacy as a heart valve donor. The Roark family credits Dr. Irby with providing clarity, hope, and humanity when they needed it most, making her a truly deserving nominee for the Willow Award."
The Reighny Chanel Roark Family
Jessica Baker, R.N.
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Hospice Home Care, Conway
"Jessica has a rare gift for making every patient and family feel deeply cared for,
and her impact will stay with us forever.”
“When my husband's cancer journey reached its final chapter, Jessica Baker became far more than a hospice nurse—she became our source of strength and comfort during the most difficult time of our lives. With remarkable compassion, she guided us through every fear, every hard conversation, and every heartbreaking moment with grace, dignity, and kindness. She cared not only for my husband, but for our entire family, helping us navigate a path no one is ever truly prepared to walk. Even when I felt overwhelmed by grief, Jessica was a steady presence, offering reassurance and support. Her care did not end when my husband passed away; she continues to check on me, pray for me, and remind me that we are not alone."
Tracy White 🌿
Spouse of Dewayne Skinner
Dr. Sarah Peeples
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Arkansas Children's Hospital and UAMS in Little Rock
“Christian’s story began with uncertainty, but it quickly became a story of love, courage, and belonging. Dr. Sarah Peeples entered that story with extraordinary compassion, caring not only for Christian’s medical needs, but for the hearts of his parents—guiding them with honesty, tenderness, and the quiet reassurance that they were never walking alone.”
Mason and Samantha Pennington 🌿
Forever the parents of Christian Mason Pennington
Jordan Simpson, RN
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Elite Hospice in Bryant
Jordan Simpson brought a level of compassion that cannot be taught. In just five days, she helped our father remain exactly who he was—strong, humorous, and deeply loved—while ensuring his final wish was honored. Because of her, he was able to pass peacefully in his RV beside his wife, surrounded by family, with dignity, love, and grace.
“Because of her, our father was able to pass exactly where he wanted—surrounded by love, with peace, dignity, and grace.”
-
Family of the late Terry Merrell
Heather Lane, RN
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Hospice Homecare of Bryant
"Heather Lane was more than a nurse—she was a blessing to our family, bringing peace, dignity, and heartfelt compassion that transformed our goodbye into a moment we will forever cherish."
- Wanda Wise, In loving memory of James A. Wise
Gentiva Team:
John Altenbaumer, Hospice Care Consultant • Taylor Doles, Social Worker •
Abbie Golleher, RN • Melissa Heath, RN • Glinda Harvey-Nowden, Hospice Aide •
Bradley Hill, RN • Sara Hines, RN • Jason Palmero, Chaplain
2025 Willow Award Honorees
Gentiva Hospice of Little Rock
"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible hospice professionals who so compassionately cared for Edna Jean Rowland in her final days. Your dedication to comfort, dignity, and gentle guidance during life’s most tender moments does not go unnoticed. Through your kindness, patience, and skilled care, you brought peace not only to Edna Jean, but also to those who loved her most. In a time filled with emotion and uncertainty, you were steady hands and caring hearts—true stewards of end-of-life care. Your work is sacred, and your impact will always be remembered with deep appreciation."
– The Family of Edna Jean Rowland
David Cariker, RN
2026 Willow Award Honoree
Hospice Homecare of Conway
"David was more than a caregiver—he was a comforting presence and trusted friend during my mother’s final months. His calm, compassionate care gave her peace, dignity, and the gift of staying at home as she wished. The bond he formed with her brought great comfort to our entire family, and we will always be grateful for the love and kindness he showed her at the end of her life."
– The Family of Geraldine Carter
Renisha McDowell, CNA
2025 Willow Award Honoree
The Manor, Benton
"She was truly our angel through the whole thing, knowing that someone who loved him just as much as we did was there taking the best care of him possible was such a relief to us. She will forever be part of our family."
– The Family of Alfred Eddins
Michelle Lindsey, CNA; April Ash, Social Work; Nick Shimmer, Chaplain;
Keelie Sullivan, RN; Jacob Medler, RN
2025 Willow Award Honorees
Arkansas Hospice, Searcy
“They did anything they could for JB, and they also continued to check on my needs. These individuals breathed joy into our home during the hardest weeks of our lives.”
– The Family of JB Threat
The inaugural Willow Award Celebration of Excellence was a powerful afternoon of gratitude, compassion and inspiration held at the new North Little Rock Event Center. Presented by Smith Family Funeral Homes and Tipton & Hurst Florist, the event honored 31 extraordinary end-of-life caregivers whose kindness and compassion have forever impacted Arkansas families. From the moving opening ceremony featuring Calvary Academy, the Patriot Guard Riders and the Arkansas Nurses Honor Guard, to heartfelt stories shared by Jodie McGinley and Blair Presley, the afternoon served as a beautiful reminder of the difference caregivers make during life’s most difficult moments.
As families and nominators looked on, each honoree received a Willow tree seedling symbolizing the comfort, strength and hope they provide every day. Through the vision of Jodie McGinley and the support of presenting sponsors Jeff Smith and Howard Hurst, the celebration became a heartfelt tribute to the caregivers who stand beside families during life’s hardest moments.
Past Honorees of the Prestigious Willow Award
Like a willow tree, a caregiver working in end-of-life care bends to accommodate the needs of their patient and family in their storm. Regardless of the challenges that lie ahead, these caregivers are steadfast and resilient to the very end. Like the pliant Willow tree, they will stand back upright and tall, ready to care for another patient. This award is for them!
2025 Willow Award Honorees
April Mandeville, Director of Nursing: Cabot Senior LIving - Cabot
Nomination LetterApril Mandeville, Director of Nursing
2025 Willow Award Honoree
Crestview Senior Living - Cabot
“April was there from Day One, providing support, compassion, and a sympathetic ear. She allowed me to vent to her, cry, be upset, scared, and everything in between. All the while her gentle and calm spirit helped me to have some peace and know that dad was an excellent hands.”
- Kristy Woods, Daughter of the late Billy Woods
Elizabeth "Liz" Janes, Caregiver: Pinnacle In-Home Care - Bryant
Nomination LetterElizabeth "Liz" Janes, Caregiver
2025 Willow Award Honoree
Pinnacle In-Home Care - Conway
We honored Liz Janes at Pinnacle In-Home Care in Conway on January 8, 2025. Here is an excerpt from her nomination letter: After every shift, she would write detailed notes to our father regarding how our Mom’s day had gone and would text him updates throughout the day. She would cook special meals for Mom which always made our Mother smile. Liz even made a giant bouquet of Valentine’s Day gifts for both Mom and Dad, and Mom adored the shirt she was given and wore it frequently.
- The Family of Tonya Marie Riner
Latesha "T" McKinney, CNA: Lakewood Nursing & Rehab - North Little Rock
Nomination LetterLatesha "T" McKinney, CNA
2025 Willow Award Honoree
Lakewood Nursing & Rehab - North Little Rock
Latesha “T” McKenney, CNA, is being honored with a Willow Award for the heartfelt and compassionate care she provided to Darby Blair during her time at Lakewood Rehabilitation and Nursing Home. More than a caregiver, T became a source of comfort, dignity, and joy—not just for Darby, but for her family as well. She brought warmth and kindness to every interaction, creating moments of connection and laughter that helped Darby feel truly seen and cared for. Her attentiveness extended beyond the bedside, offering guidance, reassurance, and genuine support during a time filled with uncertainty. In Darby’s final moments, T’s quiet presence and comforting embrace brought a depth of peace and understanding that words cannot fully express. Her care left a lasting impression on everyone she touched, and her compassion continues to be remembered with deep gratitude.
- Maddie Hall, Granddaughter of Darby Blair
Baptist Labor & Delivery, NICU & Postpartum Team Members - Little Rock
Nomination LetterBaptist Labor & Delivery, NICU & Postpartum Team Members
2025 Willow Award Honorees
Baptist Medical Center - Little Rock
"Leaving the hospital without your babies is something a family should never, ever have to do. It makes you not want to ever look back or enter that specific building again. However, God willing, I am looking forward to the day when I’m back there again for a happy celebration and I pray all of these people get to be a part of it. Until then, I want them to know the incredible impact they had on our lives and how thankful we are for each one of them."
- Mark & Hannah St. Pierre
Evergreen Living Center - Bryant
Nomination LetterEvergreen Living Center
2025 Willow Award Honorees
Evergreen Living Center - Bryant
"When our family faced the heartbreak of my dad’s final chapter, Evergreen Living Center became more than a nursing home—they became our family. From the moment we walked through their clean, welcoming doors, we were met with kindness, respect, and compassion that carried us through the darkest of days. Every staff member, from the nurses to the cleaning crew, treated my parents —and all of us—with such dignity and love that we will never forget. It truly takes a team to care the way they did, and Evergreen showed us what it means to be surrounded by people who feel like home."
- Linda Kreuser, Daughter of the Late Phillip Morris Stiles
Ashley Rowan, PCA: Home Instead - Hot Springs
Nomination LetterAshley Rowan, PCA
2025 Willow Award Honoree
Home Instead - Hot Springs
“Ashley deserves the Willow Award because she gave more than just care—she gave our mother comfort, joy, and dignity during her final months. Her patience, creativity, and unwavering dedication made her truly one-in-a-million.”
- The Family of Vivian Lee Wigley
Michael Emery, LPN: Greenbrier Nursing and Rehab - Greenbrier
Nomination LetterMichael Emery, LPN
2025 Willow Award Honorees
Greenbrier Nursing and Rehab - Greenbrier
In December 2023, Deloris would become one of the family at Greenbrier Nursing & Rehab in December and passed away peacefully 9 months later. The best way to describe Deloris: “Laid back country woman." And although she received excellent care within these walls by everyone she encountered, Deloris became attached to one particular LPN, often citing “how he listens to me.”
- The Family of Deloris Love
2024 Willow Award Honorees
Mendy Barnes, CNA: Gentiva Retirement Care - Little Rock
Nomination LetterMendy Barnes, CNA
2024 Willow Award Honoree
Gentiva Retirement Care - Little Rock
She said these very thoughtful words to me, “Just be his daughter right now in this very moment, not his caregiver, because I will be that for him.” In those very precious moments with my Dad, I talked to him, I held him in my arms, and I was his daughter, getting to enjoy just being there for him - the way that I needed and wanted it to be.
- The Family of James Eversole
Rosa Perez, OM: Pleasant Hill Adult Daycare - Bryant
Nomination LetterRosa Perez, OM
2024 Willow Award Honoree
Pleasant Hill Adult Daycare - Bryant
“Rosa knew how much Amy loved Reba McEntire. There was a Reba concert coming to Simmons Arena. And Rosa took Amy to that concert in a wheelchair. She really had a job taking her, but it did not matter.”
On August 6, 2024 we honored Rosa Perez, OM with Pleasant Hills Adult Daycare in Bryant. She was suprised to see all her colleagues and family at the facility when she arrived for the "special" meeting." Caregivers like Rosa never expect to be honored for the work they do, so it always touches our souls to watch them come to the realization that we are talking about them.
Amy Scivally was diagnosed with Niemann Pick disease at a young age and fought for many years. Rosa took special interest in Amy and was her advocate in anything that concerned her care. She brought Amy into her life and family, and they brought Rosa into the Scivally family also. Amy passed in January of 2024, but the family will never forget Rosa and her kindness.
- Linda Scivally and the Scivally Family
Curtis Felps, CNA: Independent Caregiver - North Little Rock
Nomination LetterCurtis Felps, CNA
2024 Willow Award Honoree
Independent Caregiver - North Little Rock
"Curtis genuinely cared for Gene and me and became an important part of our team. He has a huge heart that included patience and love, and we can never thank him enough."
-Judy Smith and the Family of Gene Powell Smith
Alisha Ryan & Lisa Roberts, RNs: Baptist Health Hospice - Little Rock
Nomination LetterAlisha Ryan and Lisa Roberts
2024 Willow Award Honorees
Baptist Health Hospice - Little Rock
"Alisha Ryan was my mother's first caregiver and also her last. She was comfortable in her role and somehow managed to make light of it all. Lisa Roberts was no nonsense, and calmly worked to give her options and keep her comfortable. She handled everything with grace. The team of Alisha and Lisa were invaluable and made my mother feel accepted and valued."
- Lynda Englehart and The Ervin Family
Shannon Smith, Care Coordinator: Integrity Incorporated - Little Rock
Nomination LetterShannon Smith, Care Coordinator
2024 Willow Award Honoree
Integrity Incorporated - Little Rock
“It is important to note that Shannon is not and never was an end-of-life caregiver. She did not sign up for that. But she fulfilled that role to the fullest and we cannot imagine this journey without her.”
July 24, 2024 was a day to remember! We honored Shannon Smith with Integrity, Inc. out of Little Rock for her decades-worth of work with “Little Larry” Cates. Shannon came into their lives in 2008 and has been a part of their family ever since. After Little Larry’s unexpected passing in January, his family couldn’t think of a more deserving honor than to nominate Shannon for the Willow Award. Surrounded by her Integrity team, the Cates family, and the Willow Award team, Shannon received her award!
- The Cates Family
Sammie Wright & Donna Hayden, Independent Caregivers - Hot Springs
Nomination LetterSammie Wright and Donna Hayden
2024 Willow Award Honorees
Independent Caregivers - Hot Springs
Sammie Wright and Donna Hayden came into our lives as caregivers for my Mom the late Elfreda Owens. They have been through her stages of dementia from combativeness, depression, confusion, sadness until finally settling into a comfortable routine. Not once did they waiver from their caring love and expert care.
- Jo Cochran, Daughter of the late Elfreda Owen
Tina Robbins, Arkansas Hospice - North Little Rock
Nomination LetterTina Robbins
2024 Willow Award Honoree
Arkansas Hospice - North Little Rock
Tina was surprised by her peers at an event on Thursday, March 21 at the Arkansas Hospice location in North Little Rock. Being a caregiver is so much more than a job, it's a calling. We are so proud to call Tina a Willow Award honoree.
- Bonnie Siepert, Arkansas Hospice coworker
George Nunez, CNA: Spring Creek Nursing and Rehab - Cabot
Nomination LetterGeorge Nunez, CNA
2024 Willow Award Honoree
Spring Creek Nursing and Rehab - Cabot
We honored George Nunez, CNA at Spring Creek Nursing and Rehab on October 10, 2024. He was nominated by Keith Brickell for the care and compassion he showed during the final days with his father, George Brickell. My father had Alzheimer’s, which made it difficult to carry on a conversation, but Mr. Nunez spent countless hours with my father doing anything he could to make things better. Most importantly he spent time with him. The day my father died, George was off work but came to check on him as he knew death was near. His compassion and genuine care for my father was amazing!
- Keith Brickell, Son of the late George Brickell
Brandi Fairchild, RN: Elite Hospice - Hot Springs
Nomination LetterBrandi Fairchild, RN
2024 Willow Award Honoree
Elite Hospice - Hot Springs
We honored Brandi Fairchild, RN at Elite Hospice in Hot Springs on December 18, 2024. Here is an excerpt from her nomination letter: For six years my father was my mother's only caregiver because my brother lives in Texas, and I live in Mississippi. Whenever we visited, we did our best to help, but my father remained devoted to my mother’s care. When Brandi came into our lives through Elite Hospice, her kind and selfless spirit immediately eased my father’s worries. For the first time in years, he was able to rest easier, knowing my mother was in good hands.
- Family of Judy Rouse
2023 Willow Award Honorees
Sara Arnold, RN: Baptist Health Hospice - Little Rock
Nomination LetterSara Arnold, RN
2023 Willow Award Honoree
Baptist Health Hospice - Little Rock
Sarah Arnold is the kind of caregiver whose compassion stays with families long after her work is done. As Charles Holley’s hospice nurse, she cared not only for his medical needs, but for his heart—and for the family who loved him. She checked in often, stayed late when no one else could, and went far beyond her role to ensure comfort, dignity, and peace. From arranging oxygen during a power outage to sitting for hours to stabilize him, Sarah never left until Charles was safe. She prayed with him, cried with him, and reminded him he was deeply loved. To Charles and his family, Sarah truly was their “special angel,” and her selflessness and compassion make her a deserving Willow Award recipient.
- The Family of Charles Holley
Reva Martin, BSN: UAMS - Little Rock
Nomination LetterReva Martin, BSN, Clinical Specialist for L&D
2023 Willow Award Honoree
UAMS - Little Rock
Reva Martin, a nurse of extraordinary empathy, provides invaluable support to families in crisis. Our sincere thanks to the Billingsleys for recognizing her exceptional dedication.
- Skye & Dylan Billingsley.
Monte Gillespie, CNA: The Manor Senior Living Community - Little Rock
Nomination LetterMonte Gillespie, CNA
2023 Willow Award Honoree
The Manor Senior Living Community - Little Rock
Monte Gillespie, CNA at The Manor Senior Living Center was honored with a Willow Award on Monday, June 5, 2023. We surprised her in a meeting with a group of her peers. The family of Rose Stramel (1947-2023) submitted the nomination letter describing the exceptional care Monte showed to their mother and their entire family during a very hard time. "She took a situation that was unpleasant and hard and made it comfortable and accepting," said Mary Russell.
- The Family of Rose Stramel
Audrey Booker, CNA: Hospice Home Care - Hot Springs
Nomination LetterAudrey Booker, CNA
2023 Willow Award Honoree
Hospice Home Care - Hot Springs
Audrey Booker, CNA at Hospice Home Care in Hot Springs was honored at an event in her office on Thursday, February 16. She was surprised to find out that the Davenport family nominated her for the exceptional care she showed their family as she provided care for Mrs. Davenport during her last days. We congratulate Audrey for her honor and for being an exceptional caregiver.
- Family of Billie June Davenport
Chris Straschinske, EMT: MEMS - Little Rock
Nomination LetterChris Straschinske, EMT
2023 Willow Award Honoree
MEMS - Little Rock
Chris Straschinske's exceptional compassion and support for her colleague during a challenging time were truly remarkable. Upon receiving the nomination letter, it was evident that she embodies the values deserving of the prestigious Willow Award.
- Greg Thompson, Executive Director MEMS
Karly Brooks, RN: Arkansas Children's Hospital - Little Rock
Nomination LetterKarly Brooks, RN (1st Willow
Award Recipient)
2023 Willow Award Honoree
Arkansas Children's Hospital - Little Rock
Karly Brooks, RN at Arkansas Children's Hematology was honored at an event at the hospital on Monday, April 3, 2023. We surprised her in a meeting with a group of her peers to honor her and read the nomination letter sent in by the Britton Family, about the exceptional care and love she showed their son, Gus Britton, during the 3 years prior to his passing. He chose her, and she reciprocated. Congratulations, Karly!
- Family of Augustus Bo Britton
Hospice Comfort Homecare Center Team - Little Rock
Nomination LetterHospice Comfort Homecare Center Team
2023 Willow Award Honorees
Little Rock
On September 6, 2023 we surprised the Hospice Homecare Comfort Care Center Team in Little Rock during their staff meeting to award the entire team with a Willow Award for exceptional end-of-life care. The team was nominated by Laura Wyrens, the daughter of the late Mr. Donald Gassaway. Traditionally, we honor a person, but in the words of Ms. Wyrens, "After my experience at Hospice Homecare, I simply cannot identify one specific individual to recognize as the entire team was simply amazing."
- Laura Wyrens, Daughter of Donald Gassaway
MaKayla McBryde, RN: Baptist Health Medical Center North - North Little Rock
Nomination LetterMaKayla McBryde, RN, the first Willow
Award Recipient
2023 Willow Award Honoree
Baptist Health Medical Center - North Little Rock
On November 17, 2022 we celebrated our first Willow Award honoree, MaKayla McBryde, RN. She was nominated by the Kelley Family for the exceptional end-of-life care she provided for their elderly mother. The family felt MaKayla went above and beyond traditional care to help their mother feel safe and comfortable during her last days. Congratulations to MaKayla for being our first Willow Award honoree.
- The Family of Sara Ruth Kelley
Ready to nominate a deserving caregiver?
Willow Award Nomination
If you prefer, you can also mail your Letter of Nomination to:
Willow Award Nomination, 1920 Main St., Suite 150
North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114
or email to: jodie@willowaward.com
Meet Jodie...
Jodie McGinley, BAE, LFD, CT
Executive Director, The Willow Award
jodie@willowaward.com
PROUD PARTNERS OF THE WILLOW AWARDS
Smith Family Funeral Homes takes great pride in joining hands with the Willow Awards, wholeheartedly advocating for compassionate end-of-life care.
Jeff Smith and his wife, Leslie, share, "It's heartwarming to hear families share their stories of the incredible support provided to their loved ones by nurses, Hospice workers, as well as friends and family. The Willow Awards will open doors for more people to listen to these touching accounts, allowing us to honor the exceptional caregivers in our communities and to celebrate the lives they touch."
Tipton & Hurst has created a custom floral arrangement to honor each Willow Award recipient. Designed to reflect the beauty, strength, and compassion of end-of-life caregivers, this special bouquet is a tribute to those who bring peace and comfort during life’s most difficult moments.
"We are honored to support the Willow Awards with a beautiful floral arrangement for each recipient," said Howard and Stacy Hurst. "Having lost loved ones and experienced the vital role of end-of-life caregivers firsthand, giving back in this way means the world to us."
