Nurse Honor Guard holds inaugural membership meeting

Many people may be asking, “What is the Georgia Highlands Nurse Honor Guard?” The organization is the local chapter of a national and state network of volunteer nurse honor guards that pay tribute to nurses upon their death by performing the “Nightingale Tribute” and “Final Call to Duty.” These ceremonies may be conducted during a funeral, memorial, graveside, or celebration of life services.

Much like a military honors ceremony, but without military components, the tribute recognizes a nurse’s dedication, compassion, and lifelong service to the profession. The ceremony symbolically releases the nurse from their earthly nursing duties while honoring the legacy they leave behind.

The Georgia Highlands Nurse Honor Guard is the 22nd chapter in Georgia and will serve families in Union, Towns, and Rabun counties. The chapter was co-founded by Karen Dinsmore, MN, RN, and Terri Worthey, PhD, RN, both residents of Blairsville who share a passion for nursing with over 75 years’ experience combined.

Recognizing a need for this meaningful service in the North Georgia mountains, Dinsmore and Worthey established the chapter to ensure that local nurses receive the recognition and respect they have earned through years of caring for others. Their mission is to preserve the traditions of nursing, honor a life of service, and ensure that no nurse leaves this world without the dignity and gratitude they deserve.

The Nurse Honor Guard provides services for all licensed nurses, including Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs). These tributes are performed by volunteer nurses and are provided at no cost to families.

Honor Guard services can be incorporated into traditional funeral or memorial ceremonies and typically last between five and seven minutes. During a tribute, members may stand vigil beside the casket during visitation or be present during the service. In keeping with nursing tradition, participants wear a traditional white uniform with a navy-blue cape lined in red and a nursing cap.

The ceremony includes the recitation of the “Nightingale Tribute,” a “Final Call to Duty,” and the presentation of a Nightingale lamp to the family. A white rose is placed on the casket or beside the urn as a symbol of the nurse’s dedication and commitment to the profession.

For nurses interested in joining the Georgia Highlands Nurse Honor Guard, or for those seeking more information about the organization and its services, please contact Karen Dinsmore at 404-844-8369.

“Honoring those who spent their lives caring for others.”