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Community Corner

Hundreds Attend Candlelight Vigil for Olivia Hellwig

The community comes out to show their love and support in a beautiful way.

Hundreds of people attended a vigil Wednesday night at Lenora Park in Snellville to honor the memory of Olivia Anne Hellwig.

One-year-old Olivia was that occurred in on Saturday.

A make-shift memorial was created along the fence next to the scene of the accident. Along the fence were stuffed animals, balloons, pictures and a large poster board full of signatures and messages to baby Olivia. On the poster in large letters it reads: “Mommy loves you.”

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Several friends and family members showed up before the memorial, sharing kind words and embracing one another.

By nightfall the area was crowded with people, holding candles in the dark while the song “Hallelujah” was played. The song was followed by a prayer of blessing on the family.

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Many of the people who attended did not know the family personally, but were parents who felt sympathy just the same. They came simply to show support.

Family members of Olivia were asked to gather in the center of the parking lot to release message lanterns during a moment of silence. The lanterns symbolized Olivia's spirit that would remain in the hearts of family, friends and even strangers, though her physical presence has departed.

Dozens of lanterns lit up the night sky while a bagpipe rendition of Amazing Grace filled the air.

A Facebook page has been set up in memory of Olivia. More than 400 people have joined in support. There is also a memorial fund set up in her honor. Donations can be made to any , under Olivia Anne Hellwig.

Olivia’s will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22 at

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