Manchester Area Nursing Honor Guard Established

Manchester Area Nursing Honor Guard Established

January 8, 2026 in News, Regional Medical Center

A group of volunteer nurses (RN) and licensed practical nurses (LPN), both active and inactive, have banded together to create the Manchester Area Nursing Honor Guard. The Nursing Honor Guard, similar to those for police officers and firefighters, offers a tribute at the final services for a deceased nurse recognizing their dedication to the service of others. 

The Nursing Honor Guard provides a tribute upon the family’s wishes. This recognition  includes the reading of the Nightingale Prayer, named after Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. Tributes generally include a final call of the deceased nurse’s name followed by the ringing of a bell that signifies the end of the nurse’s duties. 

Retired Regional Medical Center (RMC) nurses, Joan Wessels and Becky Sullivan, have joined the Nursing Honor Guard to express their support and heartfelt respect for the passing of fellow RNs and LPNs.

"This is a beautiful way to pay respect to nurses, licensed practical nurses, and former colleagues who spent their lives caring for others," said Joan Wessels, former Quality Manager and nurse at RMC. "It’s an honor to be a part of this tribute." To request the presence of the Manchester Area Nursing Honor Guard, please notify your local funeral home. To learn more about the Manchester Area Nursing Honor Guard, visit regmedctr.org/nursinghonorguard.

Pictured: 2025 Nursing Honor Guard Committee

Front Row (Left to Right): Mary Ann Lov, Becky Sullivan, Paula Woods, Pat Doyle, Joyce Foster

Back Row (left to Right): Marilyn Cunningham, Nancy Oehler, Deb McClimon, Joan Wessels