Community Gathers in Candlelight Vigil for Micheal Chism
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HARDEMAN COUNTY, Tenn.- Family and friends of Micheal Chism packed the streets of Bolivar for a candlelight vigil to honor his memory, Thursday. Chism died from injuries after an explosion at the Kilgore plant in Toone, Saturday. During the vigil there were moments of grief, joy and faith remembering Chism as friends, family and coworkers united. “Thank God. Thank God. Everybody had feelings for the family. It’s just a tragedy,” said family member Treada Jones. “Every minute, every second, we need prayer.” Chism’s wife and children honored Chism’s memory with the pouring of sand. Residents said the loss has rocked their small tight-knit community. “Micheal is my second cousin and we’re going to miss him,” said family member Rick Hill. “You know accidents happen, but not like that…this means it a lot, makes you feel good , lets you know he was a good person and he will be missed.” Kilgore employees took the stage reminiscing about memories of their former co- worker who they said loved to entertain. Workers said returning back to Kilgore without Chism’s warm smile and sense of humor will be hard. “We’re a real close family, real close and I miss him very much, said family member Terry Hill. ” I understand how it feels to have this happen. I’ve lost family too,” said resident Tom Cobb. “I just hope them all the best… these guys every day they walk in there, there is a chance, ya know.” Family and friends said there is strength in knowing they are not alone. Chism’s family members ended their ceremony with a moment of silence and a balloon release.
