SOUTH POINT — The late Pete Henthorn was a mainstay each year at South Point United Methodist Church’s vacation bible school.

Those who knew him say he was a strong believer in getting youth involved in the church and serving the community through mission work.

Though he will not be at VBS this year, his memory will live on through a project in his honor. Henthorn was 68 years old in January when he died of heart surgery complications.

The church is taking part in “The Linus Project,” a nationwide effort to make blankets for children in need. The VBS youngsters will assemble about 100 blankets — they are currently in top and bottom pieces and need tied together. Half of the blankets will be donated to local agencies that serve children and the other half will be sent to Mexico. All of the blankets were purchased through donations from church members.

Amy Classing, VBS director, said each year the church tries to participate in a project during bible school that will teach the children how important it is to help those in the community. As a big fan of Snoopy and his friends, she said “The Linus Project,” was a natural fit this year.

“There were so many reasons we wanted to do this,” Classing said. “He (Henthorn) was such a wonderful part of the church and he was always an advocate of missions and outreach. We want to carry on that tradition.”

Unlike collecting food or other items, the blankets will give the youngsters the chance to experience making something with their own hands to be distributed to the community.

Henthorn’s widow, Katrine, said she is honored that her husband is being recognized. She said her husband “served the Lord with gladness” and was dedicated to his three daughters and seven grandchildren, as well as all of the children of the church.

“It’s (bible school) difficult for me personally, but it helps knowing that he will still be a part of it in some way,” she said.

VBS is for ages 4 to 6th grade. It will kick off at the church, 202 Third St. East, South Point, will a registration party at 6 p.m. Saturday in the fellowship hall. The event will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, with the week-ending program at 7 p.m. Friday.