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A new mural in the library at Ellenboro Elementary School is so much more than a stunning, eye-catching painting of a reading book path through a quiet forest with lanterns lighting the way while forest animals look on.
Amy's Reading Nook is a space dedicated to Amy Williams who passed away on July 4, 2022 after a courageous 16-month battle with pancreatic cancer.
Granddaughter Abby Ewart goes to Ellenboro school and years ago Amy's mother, Sunshine Tedder, was the librarian there. Amy herself was a librarian in Huntersville before the family moved back to Ellenboro.
So it was fitting for the Williams family to choose to commission a mural in Williams name.
"It is a fabulous space in which to nurture and encourage a love of reading," said Rachael Bradley, Ellenboro school's technology technician. She said students and staff enjoyed watching the entire creative process, seeing the mural come to life from start to finish.
"We will treasure Amy's Reading Nook for generations to come," Bradley said.
The mural is the result of brainstorming sessions between Amy's husband Jerry Williams and Rev. Tonya Garrison, children's minister at Florence Baptist Church, where the Williams family are members.
Jerry wanted to do something to honor Amy's life, her love for reading, books and family.
"She lived a quiet life and didn't want any recognition whatsoever. She loved books," Jerry said. "She wanted children to have a foundation for reading."
He believes the reading nook, a quiet place for gathering, reading and enjoying fellowship would honor Amy.
Jerry commissioned Rutherfordton artist Paul Rodriguez and Absolute Air Airbrush Co. to create the mural and after weeks of work, the mural was dedicated on Dec. 2.
"The thought of doing a mural in honor of such a wonderful lady was such honor," said Rodriguez. "To hear the wonderful compliments coming from the students as the mural was taking shape really made working at the school one of the greatest honors of my career," he said.
Attending the mural dedication ceremony with Jerry was the couple's daughter Mary Catherine, grandchildren, other family, friends and school staff.
Speaking at the ceremony Garrison said, "This area is cozy, the mural is beautiful and standing here looking at this beautiful image two words jump out at me, Journey and Light."
"This space today is a perfect way to honor her life and purpose. Our lives are a journey," Garrison said. "Things do not always go as planned. We get sick, we face hardships, we suffer loss, but through each part of our life's journey we gain friends, find joy, and eagerly take the next step."
"The lanterns allow us to see beyond the present to the future," Garrison continued. " As a Christian, Amy sought light over darkness. She filled her days with joy not sorrow. She walked upright with honor and grace. She let her light shine bright and when I look at this mural I am drawn to the light," Garrison continued.
Garrison said the mural is a reminder that all have an impact on others and share the journey with a community destination, "But without the proper light, one will get lost."
Educators at Ellenboro School are an important light to the children in this school and community, Garrison said.
"Amy's Reading Nook will be another lantern on their path. Her spirit will hoover with the children as they explore new ideas, her light will add wonder, amazement and joy as they curl up in this space and get excited about what opportunities lie ahead: The books, the stories, the quiet time, the imagination, the endless possibilities," Garrison said.
"Amy was fearless. Amy was focused. Amy was faithful. Today we dedicate this beautiful space to Amy in hopes to instill these same qualities in the children as they take that next step in their journey and let their light shine on others."
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Ellenboro Principal Kyla Bumgarner said the mural is a great educational experience.
"To watch the painting come to life, adding so much detail to the mural was so exciting. We will never know how much of an impact this will have on people in years to come," said Bumgarner.
The library is used for all the school staff meetings. "We will see this often. We are so appreciative."
Mary Catherine said of her mother, "She fought with strength and grace- and when it was time, she still told us "all is well". Her eyes were on the Lord."
