Tears of joy and laughter replaced thoughts of sorrow for those who are mourning the loss of their loved ones during Tuesday's seventh annual Wig Bank of Caldwell County Legacy Banquet.

Through uplifting music, heartfelt stories and a little cheering, the lives of Gail Cutts, Ann Hines, Barbara Jenkins, Melinda Keaton, Ron Poteat and Shawn Woodruff were celebrated as those of great strength and hope. Though each of them may have lost their lives after battling cancer, their fondest memories and legacies live on among those who knew them best.

"This is our time to pause and remember the impact these extraordinary people had on the community around them," said Wig Bank Chairperson Cindy Barlowe. "We want to thank you for being part of this special day as we honor their legacy."

A hopeful crowd filled the fellowship hall at First Baptist Church in Lenoir to listen to stories about six individuals whose lives were filled with hope and a passion for helping others. They were people who loved the world around them and never gave up hope, even as they took their final breaths. They were true friends who never once complained about sitting on the sidelines at numerous sporting events or helping those in need. No matter the situation, they always were there to lend a hand to those close by.

"He was the kind of man who would give you a simple answer to a simple problem; provide a ray of hope in a time of crisis; and put his heart and soul into healing the lives around him," said David Stevens, a dear friend of Poteat. "He lived his life like a coach and would want people to always remember one thing: Make the world a better place because we passed through it."

Stacy Herman, the daughter of Gail Cutts, told the audience about days growing up in a teacher's house, especially the time she was in her mother's class. She described the top three classes she thought her mother never should teach as a segue to some of her favorite memories. But, the most valuable lesson she said Cutts taught her was the power of faith.

"The legacy she left behind was her faith in God and us," Herman said as she held up a stuffed dog that had been in the family for many years. "She never wanted to give up on this dog like she never gave up on us."

Sheila Triplett Brady described Jenkins as a woman who had to have everything just right. No matter the project - a cookbook, a christening gown or her many other talents - Jenkins was somone who made the final piece extraordinary. Brady said Jenkins never wanted the attention for her accomplishments. Rather, she always said it was "for the glory of God."

"She was someone who gave her best to her family and her God," Brady said. "She had a strong appreciation for family legacy and always remained calm. Not even a 12-year battle with cancer could break her spirit. We can celebrate her life today because she lives in the cookbook, the gown she created and the hearts of everyone who loved her."

Tuesday's celebration also marked the beginning of a new celebration.

The "Heart in Hands" award was presented to Jerri Heltzer, a caregiver who supports her family and countless others. Described as someone who provides soothing care and countless acts of kindness with a loving heart, Heltzer didn't know what to say.

"I am very surprised but happy to receive this award," Heltzer said with her plaque and flowers in hand. "I am very humbled to be standing on the same stage tonight as the friends and families of these outstanding honorees. Their stories are amazing."

Scholarship Winners:

Kathryn Kent - Bill Kent Sr. Scholarship; West Caldwell student Fentress Chestnut - Legacy of Hope Scholarship; West Caldwell student Jade Kent - Douglas Woods Scholarship; West Caldwell student Emily Taylor Cox, - Jim Crump Scholarship; West Caldwell student Brandon Lovins - Gail Cutts Scholarship; West Caldwell student Matt David Embler - Jim Crump Scholarship; Hibriten High School student Megan Clark - Mark Manship Youth Scholarship; Hibriten student Emma Dobbin - Gail Cutts Scholarship; Hibriten student Bailey Goble - Ann Hines Scholarship; and Hibriten student Megan Winkler - Barbara Brown Jenkins Memorial Scholarship.