FRANKLIN—Despite early forecasts of rain for Saturday, the clouds parted in time for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Memory Walk held at Barrett’s Landing.

The local organization, with donations still coming in, is estimating to have raised close to $30,000.

&uot;Our goal this year was $16,000,&uot; said Education and Family Services Coordinator and local branch manager Susan Story.

&uot;It turned out to be a great day. We had about 15 teams this year and 125 walkers, which teams and individuals.&uot;

The Memory Walk was led by Honorary Chairperson Linda D. Simmons of Courtland. She walked in memory of her father, Thomas Daughtrey Sr., who died June 23. She was joined by her husband, Warren, and brother, Tommy.

&uot;Lunch was provided this year by Fred’s, Village at Woods Edge, Southampton Memorial Hospital and QVC,&uot; said Story.

The Blessing of the Animals followed the walk, and was led by the Rev. Ed Pickup of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Franklin and Armand Jalbert of Sedley Baptist Church.

The Tree of Hope and Remembrance ceremonies were combined this year. For a small donation, hearts are purchased in honor or memory of a loved one and hung on the Tree of Hope. The names are read and the hearts given to the families. The Remembrance Ceremony usually takes place on the pier, where a prayer is given and the flowers are cast into the water.

&uot;We have already started planning for next year,&uot; Story said. &uot;We are revamping for next time.

&uot;We are going to have it in the morning at 10 a.m. and be finished at lunchtime. Everyone can then join us at the gazebo for lunch.&uot;

The Franklin walk is one of several scheduled annually in the Southeastern Virginia Chapter.