Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice will host its 20th annual Butterfly Release Celebration with three virtual events held via ZOOM for Warren and Sussex Counties, plus Pike County, Pennsylvania, on the weekend of June 13 and 14.

“This beautiful event honors the life of family and friends who are still with us and celebrates the memory of those loved ones we have lost,” explained Jennifer Smith, Manager of Special Events for Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice. “With all that is going on in the world today, we will pay special emphasis on the celebration of life, recognizing those who are still with us and the heroes among us at this year’s celebration,” said Smith.

Since its inception, Smith-McCracken and Wood Funeral Homes have been central to the success of the event, leading the way as the Event Sponsor. “We are very proud to support hospice and the annual Butterfly Release Celebration. This event and the hospice exemplify the importance of friends and family,” stated Robert McCracken.

In light of current events and the COVID-19 Pandemic Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice is keeping safety at the forefront for this year’s release. Three virtual release ceremonies will be hosted on ZOOM for Sussex, Warren and Pike Counties.

Viewing times will mirror the same scheduled event times:  Saturday, June 13 at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. and Sunday, June 14 at 2 p.m.  

Event participants will be forwarded a password to enter the ceremony and be able to see and hear the reading of names, view the virtual release ceremony, and download the commemorative event program on ZOOM.

“For the last two decades, the event has been designed as a celebration of those we love, those who are have passed on, those who are with us and our future,” said the hospice in a statement.

The iconic symbol of the butterfly lends itself to the vision of rebirth, transition, hope and strength; all positive attributes to the loved ones being remembered, honored and celebrated.  

Participation begins with the purchase of a butterfly for $20 in the name of a loved one. Included in the purchase is a memorial keepsake which will be sent along with a personalized acknowledgement card to the designated recipient.

Monarch Sponsors donating $100 receive a stunning butterfly sun catcher. A new design in the series is featured annually offering a thoughtful collection opportunity. Participants are encouraged to visit our website to register and purchase a butterfly in advance at www.karenannquinlanhospice.org/butterfly.

Once registered, a memorial keepsake and acknowledgment card will be mailed to designated recipients and the celebrated name will be printed in the event program.

This year’s  celebration will integrate music with the reading of each name being celebrated and concludes with the release of dozens of butterflies. Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, currently celebrating its 40th year of providing hospice care to patients and their families, is pleased to welcome the community to take part in this community outreach.   

For additional information about the Butterfly Release Celebration or to celebrate the name of a loved one, please visit www.karenannquinlanhospice.org/butterfly or call 973-383-0115 or 800-882-1117.

The Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation is passionately dedicated to providing Hospice care for the terminally ill and bereavement counseling for those who have lost loved ones.