Emotional 'Tree Of Lights' Memorial Services Across East End Pay Tribute To Lost Loved Ones

WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY — Arms wrapped around one another in comforting hugs, tears streaking their faces, a quiet crowd gathered in Westhampton Beach Sunday afternoon for a ceremony meant to pay tribute to loved ones lost during the past year.

Presented by the East End Hospice, the annual "Tree of Lights Memorial Service" was held at the Village Green. Attendees were able to find an ornament with their loved one's name on the decorated trees — and then listen as the names of those lost was read aloud.

"I thank the Hospice organization, their staff and administration for being here and serving our community for more than 30 year," Urban said. "Because I know my family needed them 30 years ago. At that time I did not know that my family would again need them this past year, not once, but twice."

The East End Threshold Singers presented songs of comfort and gentle peace, including "Arms of Grace," "Walking Each Other Home," and "Candlelight."

A memorial reflection was offered by Jeanne Behrens, East End Hospice adult bereavement coordinator.

"I never forget any of you," she said, thanking all for attending.

A poem by Mark Nepo, "Every Chance We Get," was also read to the crowd.

"When you've lost something dear and you can't stop hurting and everyone around you is full of light, let the lightness they carry soothe your sore heart," the poem read. "Even though you don't want to be touched in your grief, and when everyone around you is lost in their grief or near death, just as you've landed in a small patch of joy, don't feel guilty.

"Just touch whatever they might touch without judgment, leaving a trail of softness and accceptance," the poem went on. "In time, our grief and our softness find each other, the way light fills every crack, we must not resist either — but open before each other and fill each other chance we get."

The crowd stood in hushed silence as the names of those lost in 2025 was read.

Father Chris Jubinski of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Westhampton Beach read the closing prayer.

As the event drew to a close, mourners, holding one another close, carried their ornaments safely close as they headed home, wrapped in memories.