James O'Donnell Funeral Home, Inc. : Hannibal, Missouri (MO)

Lanterns on the Mississippi

The James O’Donnell Funeral Home in conjunction with the Twain on Main River Life Festival sponsored, Lantern Floating on the Mississippi this past Memorial Day weekend. The ceremony remembered those we love and allowed for reflection on the memories of loved ones and dedicated prayers for a peaceful and harmonious future. Just as the waters of the Mississippi merge with the Gulf of Mexico and eventually with each ocean, the wish for peace and happiness extends from the banks of the Mississippi across the globe.

The Lantern Floating was free and open to all regardless of nationality, race, faith, or lifestyle. Each individual who took part in the ceremony brought their own unique life journey, memories, and hopes with them. Each personal experience added to the healing and transformative power of the event.

The ceremony began with a Color Guard formed of local veterans leading us to Glascock Landing. Rev. Tim Goodman of the Clover Road Christian Church offered a brief reflection and prayer of enlightenment. After the sun set, and as Taps were played, the Memorial Lanterns were released on the water in memory of those we love. Lanterns were personalized with names and notes remembering someone special.

O’Donnell Scholarships Announced

On Tuesday evening , May 19th at the Hannibal High School Awards Ceremony Jim O'Donnell presented the James O'Donnell Memorial Athletic Scholarship and the Margaret Gould Dent Speech and Theatre Award.

The James O'Donnell Memorial Athletic Scholarship is awarded in memory of James V. O'Donnell, a strong supporter of local youth and Hannibal High School Athletics. This year's recipient is Neil Hugenberg. Neil is the son of Kenny and Tammy Hugenberg. He plans to further his education at the University of Missouri - Columbia.

The Margaret Gould Dent Speech and Theatre Award is awarded in memory of Margaret Gould Dent who was the Speech and Drama teacher at Hannibal High School for many years. This year's recipient is Jordan Zeiger. Jordan plans to further her education at the University of Missouri - Columbia.

America’s Hometown Salutes the Armed Forces

The Mark Twain Museum will be presenting this exhibit that features uniforms, weapons, pictures, and other memorabilia from our local veterans.

The Grand Opening took place at 10 AM, Friday, May 15th at the Mark Twain Museum Gallery located at 120 North Main Street. Mayor Roy Hark, Hannibal native and U.S. Navy Veteran opened the ceremony with the Colors being presented by Emmette J. Shields American Legion Post #55 of Hannibal. Homemade pastries, cinnamon rolls, and coffee were served to all compliments of the James O’Donnell Funeral Home. Admission is free for all Hannibal residents and the exhibit will be open through June 14^th. For more information contact the James O’Donnell Funeral Home at 221-8188.

Visit the Bookstore
In The Bookstore
for children

Mick Harte Was Here
by Barbara Park
Thirteen-year-old Phoebe recalls her younger brother Mick and his death in a bicycle accident.
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