10/06/2026
A very special donation...
🎶 HONORING A LEGACY: THANK YOU, ROYCE & BERNICE JERKINS! 🎶
Some gifts carry a history that makes them especially meaningful. We are honored to receive a thoughtful $100 donation to the Stapleton Bluegrass Festival from Royce and Bernice Jerkins, who were among the caring Stapleton citizens who helped establish the original festival more than 40 years ago.
The festival’s roots reach back to 1983, when citizens gathered at the Stapleton Volunteer Fire Department to enjoy bluegrass music while raising funds for the Fire Department. Inspired by that success, Bill and Betty Stough, Rothel and Ethel Goram, Royce and Bernice Jerkins, Bubba Wiggins, and other community members formed a committee to build a community park. Their vision was a place where children could play, families could picnic, and neighbors could gather for music and entertainment.
For almost two decades, the festival brought Stapleton residents and visitors together to enjoy bluegrass music, arts and crafts, and good food. Although it was held on school grounds, Stapleton School was not directly involved in organizing the original event. It was a tradition created and sustained by people who loved their community.
When Stapleton School revived the festival in 2018, we were grateful for the opportunity to carry that tradition forward. Our 2026 festival marks the ninth year since its rebirth, and receiving support from two of its original founders is a wonderful reminder of the people whose vision made it possible.
Royce and Bernice’s donation continues a legacy of caring for Stapleton and bringing its people together. Bernice also served on the Stapleton School staff for many years, adding another special connection to this gift.
Thank you, Royce and Bernice, for helping create something that still brings joy to our community more than four decades later. We are proud to honor your part in its history and deeply grateful for your continued support. ❤️🎶
