Community rallies around Lovan

Well-wishers and supporters turned out by the hundred Saturday night to attend a benefit dinner and auction for Sharry Lovan of Willow Springs. Lovan, a well-known figure in the local bluegrass and gospel music scene as well as in the Willow Springs community at large, was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2024. According to event organizers, she has undergone surgical treatment and now faces chemotherapy. 

 

The benefit, taking place at First General Baptist Church, featured a dinner and both a silent and live auction by Bill Sexton Auctioneers. A pair of chainsaws proved to be the big bidding war of the night – with one going for $4,300, and the other for $3,000. 

 

Several handmade quilts, pies, and decorative items and a kayak brought generous sums at auction. Gift baskets in the silent auction were popular, receiving half-a-dozen bids each. 

 

“Last night alone raised $40,339.62,” said Monica Sanders, Lovan’s daughter and a main organizer of the event. Sanders shared organizer duties with her cousins, Heather Murdy and Sarah Summers. 

 

A bank account set up for Lovan’s benefit and other donations coming in through various channels mean the grand total raised will be around $50,000, Sanders said. 

 

If you would like to donate, make a check payable to Sharry Lovan.