The IOOF Farmersville Cemetery Association is seeking community donations to help repair damage caused by vandalism in early June, including overturned headstones and the destruction of a stage used for annual ceremonies.

Association board President Mack Hurst said several grave markers were knocked over during the vandalism, which occurred in early summer. The cemetery’s event stage, used during the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony sponsored by Pride Lodge No. 228, was also destroyed.

The cemetery’s board of trustees has been planning repairs and waiting for cooler weather before volunteers begin the work.

Restoring the damaged headstones presents a particular challenge because some of the granite markers weigh several hundred pounds. The association has purchased lifting equipment to help return the stones to their original positions, but many will require new or leveled concrete bases before they can be reset.

Individual repairs could cost several hundred dollars. The association also hopes to level additional aging headstones, many dating to the 1800s and early 1900s.

Efforts to locate family members associated with the older graves have proven difficult.

Rebuilding the event stage is another priority. Materials for the original structure were donated by trustees and local businesses, including Lowe’s, Home Depot and Farmersville Grain and Hardware. If similar donations cannot be secured, replacement materials are expected to cost approximately $1,000.

Volunteers have offered to perform the reconstruction, and some trustees have already contributed materials and funds.

In addition to the vandalism repairs, the association is undertaking several maintenance projects, including repainting the cemetery’s wrought-iron fence, maintaining roads, mowing, trimming trees and removing damaged or fallen trees. Trustees are also evaluating the installation of security cameras.

Rising maintenance costs have prompted the board to review possible increases in gravesite prices and gate fees. Any changes would take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

The association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, welcomes contributions to help cover repair and maintenance expenses.

Donations may be mailed to the IOOF Farmersville Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 263, Farmersville, TX. Checks should be made payable to the association.

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