Community mobilizing to help Maury County storm victim's family

MAURY COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) - On Thursday, News 2 learned a great grandmother was killed when an EF3 tornado hit Maury County.

Cheryl Lovett was inside her home in Spring Hill, taking shelter with her sister when the storm hit. Lovett died and her sister is currently in critical condition at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Lovett's family and loved ones returned to her home Thursday, sorting out the damage.

"They did go by and gather what they could today," family friend Erica Sullivan said. "Everything is a total loss."

Sullivan said she's especially close to Lovett's daughter, Brie, who also lives on the property.

"They lived right beside each other," Sullivan said. "They're very much alike - outgoing, bubbly, and fun."

Sullivan said Brie and her family also lost their home and cars.

"They're trying to collect everything they can right now and try to carry on," Sullivan said.

Friends said Brie and her family have a place to stay for now, but a GoFundMe has been set up because they'll need help down the road. Ryan Dunning is the person who set up the fundraiser.

"If you were born and raised here, you know everyone will lend a helping hand, no matter what time of day it is," Dunning said.

The small town is coming together during the biggest of tragedies.

A local business, Pip's Patch, is also donating sales from several of their t-shirts to the family.