|
For decades, Florence Sikes has placed flowers next to her departed loved ones at Hackney Cemetery in Riverview. In that time, she has also watched the conditions there deteriorate.
Now, Sikes has made repair and maintenance of Hackney Cemetery, 11020 Hackney Dr., her personal mission, and she has established a committee and trust fund to fund the extensive repairs and maintenance.
"Recently, when I went out to the cemetery, I found that there was a large area that was washed out on one side," Sikes said. "I was concerned about getting this repaired before it became a larger problem. It is a big project and will require a great deal of money for the repairs. I knew that it would involve more time and experience than one family could commit to."
The Hackney Cemetery Trust Fund, a nonprofit organization, is held at Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan in Riverview. Its purpose is to help the cemetery, also known as the Riverview Cemetery, which is in need of several repairs that include replacing the fence, trimming the trees and washing the grave stones. The committee has already raised more than $15,000, which went toward the paving of a new road.
"The fund is solely for the purpose of repairing and maintaining the Hackney Cemetery where some of Riverview's oldest pioneers are buried," she said. "As treasurer of the fund, I have agreed to keep records for the committee of four who have agreed to oversee the project."
Sikes added that the fund's records are open to any donor, and appointments can be made to view the records at any time.
"A few company sponsors have already made sizeable donations and provided other services," Sikes said. "However, more help from area businesses and individuals is still greatly needed and appreciated. We encourage everyone in the community to get involved."
Checks and money orders should be made payable to the Hackney Cemetery Trust Fund and sent to Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan, 7459 U.S. Hwy. 301 S., Riverview, FL. 33569. For more information, call Sikes at 677-7606 or e-mail at fsikes@tampabay.rr.com.
|
