Richardson, Texas, December 14, 2025
The annual Tree of Angels ceremony took place, gathering over 300 participants who honored victims of violent crime. This tradition has been a significant event in Dallas County for 28 years, providing families a space to remember and find support during the holiday season. Attendees shared their personal stories of loss and resilience, highlighting the importance of community support while remembering those lost to violence.
Dallas, Texas – December 14, 2025
Community Honors Victims of Violent Crime at Annual Tree of Angels Ceremony
On December 11, 2025, over 300 individuals gathered at the First United Methodist Church in Richardson, Texas, to participate in the annual Tree of Angels ceremony. This event, organized by the Dallas County Crime Victims Council, serves as a poignant tribute to those who have lost their lives to violent crime. Families and friends of victims placed angel ornaments on a Christmas tree, each symbolizing a life lost and a memory cherished.
The Tree of Angels ceremony has been a tradition in Dallas County for 28 years, following its initiation by Verna Lee Carr in 1991. Carr, a dedicated victim advocate, established the ceremony to provide families with a space to honor their loved ones during the holiday season. Her legacy continues to inspire communities across Texas, with similar ceremonies held in cities such as Austin, San Angelo, Corpus Christi, Waco, Longview, McKinney, Plano, and Allen. In 2000, former Governor George W. Bush proclaimed December 4 to December 10 as Tree of Angels Week in Texas, a recognition that was reaffirmed by Governor Greg Abbott in 2023. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the tradition, underscoring its enduring significance in the state.
At the ceremony, attendees shared personal stories of loss and resilience. Nicole Syas, who lost her uncle Joseph Syas to violence in 2022, spoke about her experience. She emphasized the unique and enduring pain that comes with such loss, noting that it is a pain that “sits there, sits with you, and it never goes away.”
Pat Keaton, a former victims’ services coordinator at the Dallas Police Department, reflected on the ceremony’s growth over the years. She recalled the first event, which drew about 50-70 people, and noted that it has since expanded to include hundreds annually. Keaton highlighted the importance of supporting families and providing them with a platform to discuss their grief, stating, “You don’t have to be afraid to talk about it.”
The Tree of Angels ceremony not only honors the memories of those lost but also offers a supportive community for individuals navigating the complex journey of grief. It serves as a reminder of the collective strength found in shared experiences and the ongoing need for compassion and understanding in the face of tragedy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Tree of Angels ceremony?
The Tree of Angels ceremony is an annual event where families and friends of victims of violent crime gather to honor their loved ones by placing angel ornaments on a Christmas tree. This tradition provides a space for remembrance and support during the holiday season.
When did the Tree of Angels ceremony begin?
The ceremony was initiated in 1991 by Verna Lee Carr, a victim advocate, to offer families a way to honor their loved ones lost to violent crime during the holidays. It has since become a statewide tradition in Texas.
How many people attended the ceremony in 2025?
Over 300 individuals attended the Tree of Angels ceremony at the First United Methodist Church in Richardson, Texas, on December 11, 2025.
What is the significance of the angel ornaments?
Each angel ornament placed on the tree symbolizes a life lost to violent crime, serving as a tribute and a cherished memory for the deceased and their families.
How has the ceremony evolved over the years?
Since its inception, the ceremony has grown from a small gathering to an event that includes hundreds of attendees annually, reflecting the community’s commitment to honoring victims and supporting their families.
Key Features of the Tree of Angels Ceremony
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Annual Event | Held every December to honor victims of violent crime. |
| Community Participation | Over 300 attendees gather to place angel ornaments on a Christmas tree. |
| Statewide Tradition | Initiated in 1991 and recognized by Texas governors as Tree of Angels Week. |
| Supportive Environment | Provides a space for families to share stories and find community support. |
| Legacy of Verna Lee Carr | Established by a victim advocate to offer families a way to honor their loved ones during the holidays. |
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