Holly Grove Church will host the 26th annual Hunter D. Stafford Memorial Wildlife Supper on Saturday, Sept. 12, continuing a tradition born out of tragedy.

The event has grown into one of the community’s largest gatherings of faith and fellowship.

It honors the memory of Hunter Dee Stafford, the eldest child of Jimmy and Emma Stafford, who died in a boating accident in 2000 at age 11.

Hunter, who lived with Type I diabetes, was remembered for his sensitivity and compassion and was deeply involved in the children’s ministry at what was then Holly Grove Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He had recently committed his life to Christ and had told his family he hoped to become a pastor.

After his death, the Staffords worked with Tennessee officials to help strengthen the state’s boating safety laws and founded the memorial supper at Holly Grove Church as a way to keep Hunter’s spirit of service alive.

What began as a modest meal for about 100 guests has grown into an event that now draws more than 1,600 people each year.

Proceeds from the supper fund camperships that send children and youth to church camp, along with mission work. Over the past 25 years, organizers say the event has raised enough to send an estimated 2,500 children to camps they otherwise could not have afforded to attend.

This year’s supper will be held at Holly Grove Church, 4538 Holly Grove Road in Brighton, and admission is free.

The day opens at 10 a.m. with a lineup of shooting and outdoor events, including a skeet shoot, a 3-D archery shoot, a still target shoot, a BB shoot, and the church’s “ham on a string” contest, along with events designed for beginners; organizers said 12- and 20-gauge shotgun shells will be furnished.

Supper begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by a 7 p.m. program featuring guest speaker Bentley Jones. The event also includes activities for children, door prizes, and vendor and craft booths.