Weddings often become memorable because of their location or the guests who attend. For Samantha Albright and Josh Campbell, their ceremony in Aurora was significant due to two absent but impactful figures. Held in Chet and Judy Albright Park on Iowa Avenue, the event honored Samantha’s grandparents, whose influence remains significant within their family and the broader community.

Choosing the Right Location

Samantha explained that when they considered venues for their wedding, “We had a few places in mind.” The couple realized the perfect choice when they considered both the attendees and those who had passed. Chet Albright, who passed in 2017, had deep roots in Aurora. He met his wife Judy at Mooseheart and served as the first 6th Ward alderman on Aurora’s City Council. His work during his eight-year tenure was instrumental, noted Ald. Mike Saville, who succeeded him in 1987 after Chet shifted his focus back to Mooseheart.

On the council, Chet played a crucial role in transitioning the city to a new governance system. As chair of the Plan Commission, he was key in forming the first economic development office, boosting the growth of the far East Side and developing infrastructure like Routes 59. A former barber, Chet also participated in Boys Baseball of Aurora, the Batavia Moose, and Aurora Rotary clubs, while Judy worked with special needs children in Aurora.

Legacy of Love and Support

Samantha fondly recalled their love for children and how “Grandma was more quiet and reserved,” while her grandpa was very sociable, remembering all faces. He was an unwavering supporter, never missing any of her events, traveling long distances to watch her softball games. Her cherished memories include discussions with her grandfather, practicing his speeches in the family’s four-seasons room.

Josh Campbell, who had never met Chet and Judy, was impressed by the stories passed on by Samantha. Their wedding, attended by 16 close family members, was emotionally charged, especially during the ring exchange. They wed on June 20, 2026, at the park dedicated to her grandparents.

Honoring the Past

After Chet’s sudden death following a game at Mooseheart, Judy presented Samantha with their wedding bands, later used in the ceremony. Saville appreciated the couple’s choice to marry in a park named after a pair who impacted Aurora extensively. Samantha’s park rides with her grandfather highlighted Aurora’s developments and his unwavering pride for his city.

In a card, Judy urged her granddaughter to “enrich the lives of others as you have enriched mine,” words that Samantha tattooed on her arm. Her grandparents served as a foundation not only for Samantha’s personal growth but also for the significance of her wedding day.