Foote family brings holiday cheer to The Guest House - Gainesville Times

By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.

Foote family brings holiday cheer to The Guest House

Yuletide tradition going 20 years strong

Joan Davis takes a present from Kayla Holcombe on Wednesday afternoon after Davis spoke with Santa at The Guest House in Gainesville. The Guest House is a provate nonprofit agency serving the elderly who have Alzheimer’s or dementia. - photo by Erin O. Smith

1224SUPERFAN 0004 — Joan Davis takes a present from Kayla Holcombe on Wednesday afternoon after Davis spoke with Santa at The Guest House in Gainesville. The Guest House is a provate nonprofit agency serving the elderly who have Alzheimer’s or dementia. - photo by Erin O. Smith

It was some 70 years ago on Christmas Eve. Cleve Edwards, then 6 years old, sat in the den, anxiously awaiting Santa Claus’ arrival, when he realized the chimney was lit. Afraid for St. Nick’s safety, Edwards went to the kitchen and filled a big dishpan with water.