When the Tree of Light is lit Tuesday in Fayetteville, many South Fulton residents will be saying a prayer for their loved ones.

For the last few years, the Southwest Christian Hospice in Union City has been sponsoring the tree, which is at the intersection of Ga. Highway 85 and Stonewall Avenue.

Each light on the tree represents a $15 donation by a resident who wants to remember someone special.

Lights are placed on the tree either for remembrance of a loved one who has died or for honor of a friend or family member.

For nearly 20 years, Southwest Christian Hospice has served as a full-service center and home-care hospice serving the entire metro area. The hospice has served more than 2,000 patients since its inception and has 45 full- and part-time employees, along with 100 volunteers.

In 1996, the hospice began care for children with life-threatening illnesses. The hospice does not charge for its services and relies on the donations from individuals and corporations.

The Tree of Light is one of the group's more recognizable fund-raisers that is staged throughout the year.

The tree will be lit this year at 6 p.m.