CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — A silent, half-hour vigil will be held on the Clarkesville Square on Wednesday, December 17, from 6:30 to 7 p.m., as residents gather in quiet reflection during the scheduled execution of Georgia inmate Stacey Humphries.
The event, taking place at the gazebo on the downtown square, is part of a long-standing tradition organized by individuals and groups who oppose the death penalty or wish to publicly acknowledge executions occurring in the state. The vigils are coordinated through Georgians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, with similar gatherings held statewide whenever Georgia carries out an execution.
A decades-long commitment
Helen O’Brien, a Habersham County resident since 1992, has helped organize and participate in these vigils for nearly 20 years.
“We’ve been doing vigils at almost every execution that’s taken place in Georgia,” O’Brien said. “Our public, quiet, prayerful vigil is one way for people who happen to be passing through to be aware that an execution is happening in our state.”
O’Brien said she is not taking a position on Humphries’ guilt or innocence, but she wants the public to know the state is carrying out an irreversible act.
“I want to be able to say that I don’t want this done in my name,” she said. “I don’t diminish the seriousness of crimes or the pain families suffer, but I don’t believe taking another life is the way to respond to violence.”
One point O’Brien noted was that the jury in Humphries’ case was originally deadlocked 11–1 in favor of life without parole, but later delivered a death sentence.
A peaceful, respectful gathering
O’Brien emphasized that the vigil is not a protest or a political rally.
“It’s not a time of confrontation,” she said. “We’re not there to debate anyone. We’re there to hold a silent, respectful vigil.”
Participants can bring candles or signs, but neither is required.
“The most important thing is a quiet, respectful presence,” O’Brien said. Those who are prayerful may pray, but the vigil is open to all who wish to reflect during the final moments of the execution.
The group typically stands for 30 minutes, a symbolic representation of what is often considered the final half-hour of life for the condemned.
A public space, open to all
O’Brien noted that no special permit is required.
“The city told me the first time I held a vigil there that it was public space,” she said. “Anyone is welcome to attend.”
Members of the public and media may observe the vigil from the square.
Event Details
📍 Gazebo, Clarkesville Town Square
📅 Wednesday, December 17, 2025
⏰ 6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
🕯️ Open to anyone who wishes to attend in quiet reflection
