UPDATE: A festive New Year’s Eve at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center’s Family Beginnings resulted in an astonishing six babies born within a 12-hour period from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026. This extraordinary surge of newborns is not typical, making it a night to remember for families and staff alike.
“It was a very busy night, a very wonderful night,” said nurse Melissa Thompson. Expectant parents were acutely aware of the impending New Year, with many racing to the hospital as the clock ticked down. “Some of them obviously delivered earlier in the day and others a little bit after, but everyone was super excited,” Thompson added.
The first known baby of 2026, Elias Lee Davis, made his grand entrance at 1:38 a.m., weighing 5 pounds and 13.5 ounces. Proud parents Alexis Barnette Ludwig and Jason Davis from Pomeroy welcomed him with open arms. Grandparents Mary Davis, Tami Hansen, Melissa Gray, Tonnie Ludwig, and Marvin Ludwig celebrated the joyous occasion.
The second baby of the New Year arrived at 3:06 a.m., followed closely by the third at 5:32 a.m.. The race for the first baby was thrilling, reminiscent of New Year’s Eve fireworks lighting up the sky just before midnight. Notably, the last baby of 2025 was born at 11:44 p.m., with other New Year’s Eve babies arriving at 6:15 p.m. and 10:40 p.m..
St. Joseph Regional Medical Center celebrated the births with a heartfelt Facebook post: “Welcome to the world, little ones—and thank you to our incredible Family Beginnings staff and providers! Delivering New Year’s babies. That’s why we’re here.”
The hospital recently earned accolades from U.S. News and World Report, being recognized as a “2026 Best Hospital for Maternity Care.” It was also designated a Maternity Care Access Hospital, a recognition awarded to 147 hospitals nationwide that are essential for providing maternity services in their communities.
Other newborns from this remarkable night include Charlie Douglas Miller, born to Hannah Barnes and Jordan Miller; Debbie Danielle Dawson, born to Kasey Bond and Noah Dawson; Tate Jeffrey Lunceford, born to Hope and Leighton Lunceford; Evelynne Jean Morgan, born to Meg and Tim Morgan; and Gradi Ann Lynch, born to Molly and Matthew Lynch.
The enthusiastic atmosphere at St. Joseph’s will undoubtedly linger as families celebrate these new beginnings. As the hospital continues to provide crucial maternity care, the community is reminded of the importance of these services, particularly in light of recent recognitions.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow the stories of these New Year’s babies and their families!
