Across every community at Wesley, Memorial Day reaches beyond remembrance. It’s felt in shared stories, quiet moments of reflection and subtle tributes woven into the smallest details.
Appreciation
At Wesley Lea Hill, red poppy flowers rest beside the names of veterans on the community wall, inviting a quiet moment of reflection. The American flag is lowered to half-staff. Miniature flags line the entrances, offering a heartfelt welcome home to those who served. Inside the dining rooms, an empty chair beside a single place setting at the fallen comrade table stands as a reminder that while some seats are empty, they are never forgotten.
For Marlene Feliciano, Director of Resident Engagement at Lea Hill in Auburn, these moments are a time to reflect. It’s a time to support one another and share the stories that shaped their lives. As residents and staff lean into their memories and life events, these moments offer empathy, warmth and a genuine connection.
“It’s a true pleasure to plan activities in this community,” Marlene shares. “I learn so much from listening to our residents’ life experiences. It creates an everlasting personal connection. Wesley residents are incredibly grateful, and that makes every effort meaningful.”
That connection extends throughout the day. An All-American lunch, thoughtfully prepared by Wesley’s culinary team, brings residents together across independent living, memory care and the care center. Dining rooms are filled with laughter and conversation of stories about service, family and friendships that continue to grow.
Honoring
Following the lunch, the day turns toward reflection. The community gathers for the Annual Service of Remembrance, led by Chaplain Haggai Habila. Names are spoken while photos are shared. Words of comfort and song fill the room. Together, residents and staff honor those who have passed through the last year. They celebrate lives lived and friendships that continue to shape the community.
Memorial Day at Wesley reaches beyond remembrance. It’s carried in the hearts of those who call Wesley home. Grounded in its mission, the team continues to foster meaningful connections that reach beyond community walls. This Memorial Day, take time to honor, reflect and celebrate these legacies with friends and family throughout your local community.
Local Memorial Day Events
- Special Remembrance Services at Mountain View Cemetery: Cemetery Calendar – City of Auburn
- Annual Memorial Day Service at Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home & Cemetery – Service of Remembrance includes flag placement, pipe band and flag-folding demonstration: Evergreen Washelli Funeral Home | Seattle, WA
- Tacoma Historical Society Memorial Day Service – Ceremony honors local service members and features guest speakers, musical performances and wreath-laying ceremonies: Memorial Day Service
- Remembrance Ceremony at Tahoma National Cemetery – Ceremony includes guest speakers, musical performances and flag-placing: Tahoma National Cemetery – National Cemetery Administration
- Washington Fallen Heroes Memorial Dedication – This memorial honors service members from Washington State and North Idaho who served in the post-9/11 era: Washington Fallen Heroes Memorial | WDVA
- Memorial Veterans Council Service – A community reflection with storytelling and memorial activities: 2025 Memorial Day Proclamation & Memorial Day Veteran Events & Observances to Share | WDVA