MASSENA, New York (WWNY) – The community will have a chance to say goodbye to 6 members of a family who died in a house fire in Massena last week.
A memorial sits outside what’s left of the home at 6 Chase Street in Massena. A January 27 fire in the home killed Diana Avery, her son Thomas Bowen, his wife Tiara Bowen, and their 3 children, Joshuha, Eli, and Karmen.
“It’s been tough to see such a young, beautiful family perish like that, perish so suddenly,” said Massena Mayor Greg Paquin.
Calling hours will be held at Emmanuel Congregational Church from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, giving the community a chance to say goodbye to all six.
“I hope everyone has a chance just to come together and heal and remember the good times that they had with these individuals,” said Paquin.
Massena Central School District is giving students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to attend the memorial service by dismissing school early on Friday. It’s one of the reasons why Pastor Judith Van Kennen is expecting many at the church. She says memorial services are vital to the grieving process.
“Especially when tragedy strikes, there’s not a chance to say goodbye to people we love, people we were in relationship with. Since time has begun, people look for rituals, ways of engaging and honoring one another, and also bringing closure,” she said.
The family tells 7 News that the American Red Cross will be there to provide counseling if needed, as friends and family continue to navigate the emotions of losing so many people all at once.