City Commissioner Becton Roddenberry has lost his cabin to the wildfires in Tennessee.
The dreaded call went to his father while Becton and his mother were running errands. They were informed that nothing from their in Sevierville could be salvaged.
It has been weeks since the wildfires started in the Smoky Mountains, causing many to flee. It's not only the local residents who are mourning the loss of their homes but also people for people like Roddenberry whose family has been vacationing in the area since he was young.
Their cabin, located just over the ridge from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, was purchased just 12 years ago and has served as a haven and second home for the family.
I've been going to the Smoky Mountains since I was a child in diapers," said City Commissioner Roddenberry. "Yesterday was really hard for us. It was such a shock." When his dad got the call to confirm that their cabin had been reduced to ashes, he immediately called his son. They had to pause upon hearing the news as their family has formed so many memories of the place as they usually Christmas up to New Year there.
The wildfires have not only caused property damage but have become fatal as well. There have already been seven people who were killed and many have suffered burns as the fires still continue to do its damage in the area. The fire in Gatlinburg started when strong winds brought a fire from Chimney Tops Trail. Two days later, the fire has consumed more than 15,000 acres in its rampage.
It took the Roddenberry some days before they could process what has happened to their much-loved vacation home. They are determined to rebuild as the place holds so many fond memories for their family. They are just thankful that they are safe and are praying for their neighbors and citizens of the area affected by the fire.
"This morning we're counting our blessings that we weren't harmed and we're safe," he said. "We're in deep prayer for all our neighbors and citizens there."
