Tree of Angels returns for 10th year in Wilco

Williamson County will hold their 10th Tree of Angels Ceremony at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 10, at the historic courthouse, 710 South Main Street.

This ceremony is a special memorial to the victims of violent crime and their families. Originally created in Travis County, the tradition was adopted by the Wilco district attorney’s office in 2013, which at the time was headed by the late Jana Duty.

Ten years later, the ceremony is still going strong, with community and law enforcement organizations coming together to place ornaments on the unadorned “Tree of Angels” in the courthouse to honor victims.

“The families appreciate that we come together — them, the district attorney’s office and law enforcement — to have this time to remember the ones that have been affected by violent crime,” said Alma Vasquez, the victim assistance coordinator for the county.

The December 10 ceremony includes music, statements from guest speakers and an opportunity for everyone to place an ornament on the tree for someone affected by violent crime. The tradition is an important piece of the holidays for the county and the families affected, according to the county.

“They appreciate having this ceremony every year,” Ms. Vasquez said. “They know that their loved ones have not been forgotten.”

This ceremony is open to everyone.

SUN ARCHIVE