The light they left behind is still with us.
Each December, our community gathers to remember the people we love and miss.
Join us for an evening of reflection together as our memorial tree glows.
A season to remember.
As the holidays approach, we feel the quiet space left by the people we love and miss.
At Empath Hospice of Marion County Foundation, we believe the best way to honor them is to celebrate the lasting light they left behind.
Together we pause for reflection and remembrance as our 14-foot memorial tree glows, crowned with an illuminated purple butterfly.
This meaningful event is free and open to everyone.
Event Information
Thursday, December 3
Citizens Circle
151 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala, FL 34471
Schedule of Events
5:30 PM | Cocoa and cookies
6:15 PM | Remembrance and memorial tree lighting
With a gift of $50 or more, illuminate the memory of someone you love with their name displayed around the tree.
Your tribute supports Hospice of Marion County’s compassionate care and services for every family who needs it.
If you are unable to join us, we hope you will consider a year-end gift in memory of your loved one.
Last December, WCJB TV20 joined us at Citizens Circle to share this evening of remembrance with viewers across our community.
“I think it’s an amazing service to be able to offer the members of this community… this is a place I’ve grown up my entire life. I love it here, and to be able to be a part of something that supports our community and gives back, you know, means a lot.”
-John Kish, Director of Clinical Services at Empath Hospice of Marion County
Care that continues after goodbye.
We are dedicated to caring for you after your loved one dies.
Through donor support of Hospice of Marion County, Empath Grief Care offers a peaceful, welcoming space for anyone in our community seeking healing and stability after loss, from adult support groups to counseling for families.
In 2025, Empath Grief Care provided:
Light a light for the people
we love and miss.
Hospice of Marion County Foundation is one of four Empath Health foundations carrying one promise across Florida:
No one walks through the darkness of loss alone.
When you give, you help make every one of these moments possible.
With gratitude to our sponsors
Refreshments donated in-kind by Transitions Life Center.
CH74429 A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE.
REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.