WAVERLY, Tenn. — After a challenging year, residents of this middle Tennessee town are embracing a renewed spirit of positivity, highlighted by a heartfelt community event. A mural adorned with a beloved quote from “Winnie the Pooh” hangs in the window of The Made Company, serving as a reminder that love transcends words. The quote reads, “How do you spell love? You don’t spell it. You feel it.”
Loyce Holland, owner of Loyce’s formal wear shop downtown, reflects on the strong sense of community that has helped residents navigate a turbulent period. “It’s such a giving community that we live in,” she said, underscoring the interconnectedness among local businesses and families.
Just a few doors down, Casey Cantrell, visiting Vintage Treasures, expressed her fondness for the quote. “I love Winnie the Pooh; he’s one of my favorite characters,” she said, embodying the town’s lighthearted spirit. Samuel Simpson, who oversees Samuel’s on the Square, acknowledged the communal bond, saying, “Everybody knows each other,” a sentiment echoed by Cantrell.
Sheriff Chris Davis and his team at the Humphreys County Sheriff’s Department also reflect the community’s pride. “It’s home, man,” Davis said, surrounded by officers. Lieutenant Valerie Hagler noted her familiarity with local residents, including Holland, describing her as “a sweetheart.” This camaraderie has been particularly vital following recent tragedies that have deeply affected the community.
The town faced significant challenges, particularly after an explosion at the Accurate Energetic Systems manufacturing plant in October that claimed 16 lives. Holland shared her heartache for the victims’ families, while Simpson acknowledged the lasting impact of such tragedies. “We’ve suffered a lot,” he said, highlighting how these events have shaped the community’s psyche.
In the wake of grief, residents longed for a moment of celebration, and they found it during a recent fashion show organized by Holland for local high school seniors. Cantrell contributed by funding scholarships for the teens, and Simpson opened his restaurant as the venue for the event. Though the fashion show has been an annual affair, this year’s gathering held special significance.
“We wanted to help bring positivity back,” Holland remarked, emphasizing the emotional drive behind the event. “My heart tells me to.” Cantrell echoed this sentiment, stating, “Our future is the kids in this community. This community raised me, and my goal is to raise up the children coming after me.”
During the show, Holland took a moment to recognize the efforts of law enforcement. “Can I have your attention?” she asked the crowd. “It’s a big day. I want to introduce you to two wonderful ladies who were at the scene of the explosion.” She acknowledged Lt. Hagler and Detective Stephanie McFerren, drawing applause from the audience in a gesture of gratitude and support.
This event not only celebrated the youth of Waverly but also served as a reminder of the resilience and unity that define the community. “It’s just a good pat on the back saying, ‘We’re with you,’” Simpson commented, encapsulating the shared commitment of town members to stand by one another in the face of adversity.