Friends of Mississippi State Hospital, Inc. held its 2025 Annual Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, in the Building 71 Conference Center. The afternoon gathering brought together board members, volunteers, community partners, and hospital staff to celebrate the impact of service and to recognize those who make a difference in the lives of patients and residents.
Friends President Amy Walker opened the meeting with a warm welcome, followed by an invocation led by board member Gale Martin and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Treasurer Dee Payne. MSH Director James G. “Bo” Chastain then directed the awards presentation, honoring three organizations whose generosity and commitment have enriched the MSH community.
Honoring Service and Impact
This year’s award recipients were:
- Nancy B. Foreman Award — Fairview Missionary Baptist Church
Fairview Missionary Baptist Church is located in Canton, Mississippi, and has been hosting parties for Building 71 since July 23, 1978. They host parties twice a year, bringing food, gifts, and singing with the residents.
- Vivian Shivers Award — Greater New True Light Missionary Baptist Church
Greater New True Light M.B. Church is located in Brandon, Mississippi, and has hosted parties for Building 28 for more than 25 years. They have provided food, gifts, and music for the residents, often hosting a party twice a year. The sing Christmas songs with the residents during the holiday season, and always receive excellent reviews for their parties from staff and residents alike.
- Jerald D. Ball Together We Make a Difference Award — Traxler Construction
Of Traxler Construction, Carla Dearman, Director of Support Services, says, “Traxler Construction, LLC, is a full-service general contractor in Magee and is owned by Ashley and Andrea Traxler. They have worked on a few projects at MSH and are currently the GC for the B-62 remodel. Ashley is the company’s primary estimator, overseeing bids, the estimation process, and client coordination. He is married to Andrea, who serves as the Office Manager. They are a dynamic duo and a pleasure to work with! When I mentioned Santa Day to Andrea last year, she immediately told me they would help, asked what was needed, and then told me of her grandmother bringing her out here when she was little. I am so thankful for their generosity and willingness to help!”
Mr. Chastain noted the significance of these recognitions, saying, “Each of these groups have made our patients’ and residents’ lives better in some way, simply by giving of their time, talents, and resources.”
Greater New True Light Missionary Baptist Church: Rachel Bennett of Greater New True Light explained, “We’ve been coming to the hospital for over 35 years, and the reason why I continue to come is because I’m a retired nurse and I love compassion and helping others. It’s a joy to see the residents here and they remember us and smile. And that’s what Jesus did. He said he didn’t come to be served but to serve others.”
Fairview Missionary Baptist Church: Pastor Steven Brooks of Fairview shared, “We want to continue to share the love and let people know that God does love us!”
Traxler Construction: Sydney Lambert of Traxler Construction added, “Volunteering at Mississippi State Hospital is not just a service, it is partnership and healing where every conversation, smile, and gesture of support has the power to change a life.”
Business and Fellowship
Alongside the awards, committee reports were presented, and officers and board members were elected to continue guiding Friends of MSH’s mission. The meeting concluded with a reception featuring finger foods, desserts, lemonade, and ice cream, giving attendees a chance to enjoy fellowship and celebrate the spirit of service.
The annual meeting highlighted not only the important role of Friends of MSH but also the enduring partnerships with local churches, organizations, and businesses that help bring joy and support to those served by Mississippi State Hospital.
PICTURED: 2025 Friends of MSH Board Members