Construction on Northeast Georgia Health System’s (NGHS) Chuck and Diane Stephens Hospice House is underway, bringing peaceful, end-of-life care one step closer to reality at the region’s first, freestanding hospice house.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the facility, which will be located at the intersection of Thompson Bridge Road and Price Road, took place on Tuesday, September 9. The 16-bed acute and respite center will offer around-the-clock care and is named in honor of NGHS Foundation donors Chuck and Diane Stephens, whose gift of more than $5 million kicked off the fully philanthropy-funded project.

“Both of my parents received hospice care in New Hampshire while we were here in Georgia and were unable to be there full-time to care for them,” Diane said. “We hope this place will offer patients the same great care and their families the comfort they need.”

The hospice house is expected to be completed in late 2026 and will hold a chapel, library, gathering places for family members and green spaces.

 “We are grateful for the Stephens’ dedication to the northeast Georgia community,” said Chris Bray, president and chief philanthropy officer for the NGHS Foundation. “We value their partnership in providing a home-like environment for patients and their families to cherish some of life’s most sacred moments together.”