Stratford Academy postpones Walker Bethune memorial due to potential severe weather

The tribute Stratford Academy was hosting to honor Walker Bethune, who died last month after being struck by lightning, has been postponed due to weather conditions.

The event was initially slated for 8 p.m. tonight, but was postponed until Aug. 23 due to potential severe weather.

Bethune was in Marco Island, Florida, vacationing with his family when he was struck by lightning on July 17. He was airlifted from a hospital in Naples to the Jackson Memorial Ryder Pediatric trauma center in Miami and died July 28.

Stratford Academy is calling the evening “Let Your Soulshine for Walker,” a reference to Bethune’s love for the Allman Brothers Band. The service will feature musicians from Middle Georgia, and staff members, teachers, and coaches will share remarks.

The event will follow Stratford’s Eagle Night festivities.

Bethune’s funeral was Saturday at Ingleside Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the Walker Bethune Scholarship Fund. To donate, visit projectgiving.net or call Stratford Academy at 478-477-8073.



A corn hole tournament, which will serve as a fundraiser for the scholarship fund., is scheduled from 4-7 p.m. Aug. 21 at Northway Church in Macon. To sign up, visit https://form.jotform.com/212146325790049.

This story was originally published August 13, 2021 at 4:15 PM.