"Reminds us of an angel:" Maple tree planted in baby Leo's honor

FRANKLIN (WITI) -- It was the daycare and playground where Leo Fisher spent many of his days. But it now has a new addition in the boy's honor.

"It will grow strong and beautiful and have beautiful foliage of white edges around the maple leaf and it reminds us of an angel, baby Leo," said Academy of Integrity Owner and Director Laqueesha Blockton.

Friends and care takers at the Academy of Integrity planted a maple tree to remember baby Leo after a terrible tragedy.

"He was always smiling and he was a joy to everyone he made everyone smile. He was so lovable," said Academy of Integrity Human Resources official Katrina Weems.

One by one children placed soil over the tree's roots so the Leo maple tree can grow big and strong.

"The kids will be able to take turns caring for the baby Leo tree. We have buckets of water that they'll carry out and pour in and take turns each day," said Blockton.

Then they sent balloons up in the air to reach baby leo in heaven.

"Due to this unfortunate situation we definitely wanted him to live on here with us because he's still forever in our hearts," said Weems.

Leonidas Fisher

Leo's father attended the ceremony to celebrate his son's life.

He placed his baby's toys by the tree and tied balloons to a branch.

"The balloons that his father brought are glow in the dark balloons so at night-time the tree will still be visible," said Weems.

Keeping the memory alive of a life lost far too soon.

Nora Zylstra

Baby Leo's mother, Nora Zylstra, allegedly took her son's life.

She faces one count of first-degree intentional homicide.

Zylstra will be back in court early next month for a plea-sentencing hearing, which could indicate a plea deal may have been struck by the attorneys in the case.

Because it is believed depression played a role in this case, CLICK HERE to access information about depression -- and how to get help to deal with it.

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