While this tornado tracked through the southern and eastern edges of Oxford, most of the damage was concentrated in the Pine Flat Community. Of those who lost everything from the event, a few decided to relocate from Pine Flat after the disaster. However, most chose to stay and rebuild.
The Pine Flat United Methodist Church survived the event with only minor damage. In the days and weeks after the tornado, it was a rallying point for those impacted. Gene Bramlett was the pastor of this church. In an article from the Oxford Eagle, he stated, “People just started turning up to the church and whoever needed what, we tried to get it. There were no solid plans. No real logistics to it or any real supplies. But it all fell into place. People started stepping up to become leaders. Food was prepared at the church, even when we didn’t have electric. People brought clothing and other relief supplies. We had one rule… whatever someone needed, if you had it, you gave it to them and if we didn’t have it, we found it.”
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