On this site in 1905 Joseph Morgan (Joe) and Sarah Hayes Cyrus completed the sorrowful task of choosing a place to bury their infant son Johnny. From here they had a peaceful view of their beloved Smokey Valley and surrounding hills. Thus began this Cyrus Cemetery.

Another son, Roy, called Little Roy, three years old at that time, planted a cedar sprout near the head of the grave sometime thereafter. Although it soon appeared frail and unlikely to survive, the cedar took root and had grown to Roy's height when he died of illness in 1909. With agonizing grief, Little Roy was laid to rest beside the baby brother he had mourned with his tender heart and near the tree he had planted with his little hands.

From 1936 forward, the tree, in fullness of growth and beauty, became increasingly treasured as a historic reminder and a comforting shade for family reunion gatherings held annually on national Memorial Day.

The deceased are buried here in the unity by which they lived, trusting God to unite them throughout eternity.

This marker is set at the base of Roy's cedar: Although the tree may perish with time, we pray his legacy of love will endure throughout our remaining generations. May they honor our heritage and trust our God.

(Joshua 4:6)