More than 50 family members, friends and co-workers attended a dedication outside the Marysville Community Food Bank Dec. 19 to memorialize the legacy of Lillie Lein, a longtime food bank volunteer and guiding force behind Operation Marysville Community Christmas (OMCC).

A dogwood tree, memorial bench and commemorative plaque were unveiled as symbols to remind visitors of the many dedicated years of service that Lein contributed to the food bank and the community. Her enduring spirit of giving is reflected in the many years of her selfless commitment of time, faith and compassion towards those less fortunate in the Marysville community.

Lein, Marysville's Deputy City Clerk for more than 15 years, consistently used her vacation time during the holidays to coordinate the OMCC annual food and toy drives. Lein passed away in July 2007.

Jack Lybyer, a regular OMCC contributor who worked with Lillie, said, "If it wasn't for Lillie, OMCC wouldn't be here."

Food bank founder Joann Mulligan added, "Lillie's dancing right now in heaven."

That comment led some guests to surmise that while Lillie may be dancing, she's probably wondering what the commotion is all about, and why guests at the dedication aren't busy preparing holiday food baskets and helping families pick out toys at this busy time of year.

The brief memorial ceremony came to an end as volunteers made their way back to work at the Toy Store at State Avenue and Grove Street to help families pick out toys.

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