Augusta Grieves: Community Comes Together After Hurricane Helene
The beautiful city of Augusta is currently facing a heart-wrenching reality as the shadows of Hurricane Helene loom large over our community. With tears in our eyes, we share the devastating news of at least ten lives lost, a stark reminder of how unpredictable nature can be. Folks in the Augusta-Aiken area are left reeling, grappling with a profound sense of loss.
The Grief of the Donehoo Family
Among the most tragic stories is that of the Donehoo family. On Old Waynesboro Road in Hephzibah, a tree fell on a home, taking the lives of 72-year-old Stephen Donehoo and his 10-year-old great-grandson, Izaak Donehoo. Michelle Donehoo, their grieving family member, has expressed her heartache and despair, seeking help as she faces the impossible task of making arrangements for her loved ones. “I want this nightmare to go away,” she shared on social media, her pain echoing in the hearts of those around her. Tragically, neither had insurance, which adds another layer of stress to an already overwhelming situation. Michelle has even set up a CashApp account to help with costs, pleading for community support.
More Lives Lost in Richmond and Aiken Counties
The storm’s fury did not spare others in the area. In Richmond County alone, several lives were lost. Katherine McCall, aged 62, met her fate when a tree crashed onto her home on Morningside Drive on Friday. Similarly, Uyen Xuan Le, just 36, suffered the same tragedy when a tree fell onto her residence on Lake Ave.
Daverio Carter, a beloved figure at 50 years old, was remembered fondly by friends and family for his infectious smile and kindness. His passing on Lakewood Drive leaves behind a grieving community.
We also mourn the loss of Andrea Warner, aged 62, who was taken from us on Windsor Spring Road. Her quiet presence will surely be missed.
The Heartbreak in Aiken County
Over in Aiken County, two lives were lost in a similar heartbreaking fashion. Joseph “Joe” Gullen III was pronounced dead after a tree fell through his roof on Metts Park Circle in Aiken on Friday morning. Perhaps even more tragic was the incident involving a couple in Beech Island. Jerry Savage, 78, and his wife Marcia, 74, were tragically taken in their sleep when a tree fell on their home on Church Road.
Adding to the sorrow, 29-year-old Michael Roukous from Dexter, N.Y., also lost his life when a tree crashed through the roof of the bed and breakfast he was renting in Beech Island.
Community Coming Together
In the face of this overwhelming sorrow, the Augusta community is banding together like never before. Neighbors are helping neighbors, providing meals, offering their homes, and creating fundraising efforts to help cover medical and burial costs for those affected. It’s heartwarming to see everyone rise up to support those who have lost so much.
As we move forward from this disaster, it’s essential to remember the lives lost and the families left to grieve. Let their stories inspire us to strengthen our community ties and lend a hand where we can. The road ahead might be tough, but in Augusta, we know the importance of coming together in times of need.
If you’d like to share a photo or a memory of a victim, please reach out. Together, we can honor their lives and keep the spirit of our community alive.
