Rusty Mead was one of the pro bono attorneys who assisted during a recent Advance Directives for Senior Pro Bono Project at a Hogans Creek elders' residential community.
One of the senior citizens she assisted, Lyvonne McCray, had a twin sister who died several years ago.
At the time of her death, the family could not afford a grave marker.
McCray mentioned this in the context of his wishes for his own burial. He said he would like to be buried next to his twin, but wasn't sure if that was possible or if the cemetery could install a marker for his sister.
Mead also is a twin and said she was touched by her client's situation and asked him if she had his permission research what it would take to have a grave marker placed.
She kept him apprised of her progress and found that a marker could easily be installed.
She was able to negotiate a discounted price, so she ordered the marker and paid for it herself. Mead gathered with the family at the grave of McCray's sister for a tribute to her and her life.
Mead's efforts provided some much needed closure and comfort to her client and his family.
The siblings who attended the tribute also expressed deep appreciation to Mead as they remembered and celebrated their sister's life.
Mead said she felt compelled to assist because of her relationship with her own twin sister.
"It really wasn't even a task that was difficult and it didn't deprive me of anything by doing it. Thus, I felt obligated to do it because I have the resources and was able and situated to do it. Sometimes it's about paying it forward," she said.
Certainly, Mead went beyond the expectation of pro bono involvement.
All of the 4th Circuit organizations that provide legal services to low income and vulnerable people are deeply grateful for the contributions of the hundreds of pro bono attorneys assisting above and beyond what is expected every day.
For information on pro bono opportunities throughout the 4th Judicial Circuit, contact Kathy Para, chairwoman, The JBA Pro Bono Committee at [email protected].