The Cyrus family reunion at the homeplace at Smokey Valley, in Lawrence County, Kentucky, marks its 60th anniversary on Memorial Day, 1995. Formerly referred to as the Cyrus "Homecoming" on "Decoration Day," it is still called "The Homecoming" and is something of a modern-day miracle. Currently, some 300 descendants and relatives of Joe and Sarah Cyrus gather to honor their heritage, reminisce about the past, mourn the loss of loved ones, show off new babies, enjoy fun and fellowship, eat a hearty meal from bountiful dishes placed on the traditional board-constructed long table on the side porch of the old but well-kept farmhouse; then walk or drive to the cemetery on the hill to walk and talk among the decorated graves, share songs and heartfelt testimonies of God and family.

No one recalls there ever being an angry outburst or even a visible dissention on homecoming day throughout all the years of its tradition. One would be "naive" to assume that there were never any misunderstandings, resentments, or hurt feelings that naturally go with human relationships. Rather, it seems that each one in attendance is under a personal oath not to violate the peaceful sanctity of the day. Cyrus's don't brag about this - they humbly rejoice.

While all are to be praised for the love and unity evident at the homecomings over the years, singular credit is given by all to "Mother" Sarah Cyrus, wife of Joe, the family's matriarch. Her strength as a woman and warmth as a mother is legendary. She stood by her man and cared for her many children, teaching love and unity through harsh and difficult times. Stories of her acts of courage as mother and wife make her a heroine by any definition of the word. Most importantly, she wove an eternal commandment into her children's upbringing; like the special commandment Jesus gave his disciples: "Love one another, as I have loved you." Mother Sarah died in September 1934. On Decoration Day 1935, all the children gathered at the homeplace. Mother Sarah's death inspired the first homecoming - her legacy inspires its continuance.