Welcome to the Merry, Merry month of May.  We're on a reunion countdown, and I, for one, can hardly wait.  It's a busy but exciting time for the activities committee and our work is truly a labor of love.  This is also the month when we celebrate Mothers everywhere.  Don't limit your honors to your family.  If you have observed a young mother who could use some encouragement, this is a great time to recognize her.  For those who are blessed to still have mothers here with us, please send their names and addresses by May 5th, so that a card may be sent from the class.  Finally, we celebrate Memorial Day this month.  Though it's a popular time for family gatherings, please remember those brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for this country.

 

Once again, we have a classmate who is making a sizable donation in the class name to our alma mater to assist indigent students with the cap and gown fee for the 2026 Raines Commencement.  If you would like to add to that contribution, please do so by May 10th.

 

Congratulations to: Kerrick D. Donald, Jr., grandson of Harry and Debra Siplin Brown, who graduated from the University of South Alabama with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy.  Donald Dempsey III, grandson of Donald and Maria Campbell Dempsey, will graduate from Jacksonville University on May 3, 2026, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Psychology.  

 

Condolences continue as we mourn the loss of class members: Harriet JONES Houchens and Larry Robinson.  We are once again reminded of the brevity of life.  Continue to keep their families as well as each other lifted in prayer.

 

Happy Anniversary to Charles and Clarissa WRIGHT Thomas, who will celebrate 49 years of marriage on the 7th.  This is truly a match made in VIKING heaven!

 

Happy Birthday to the following little May Flowers:  Diane Blue and Saundra GRACE Johnson (6th), Edwina BROWN Robinson (21st), Rafaler Hightower (23rd), Carol SCOTT Battle (25th), Debra HENDLEY Lattimer (26th) and Darlene WIGGINS Seals (29th).  May you enjoy the special days to come with those you love, great food and lots of fun.

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

 

May 5, 2026                                Deadline for Payment for the Reunion                                                                                  Photography  Package

 

June 5 - 7, 2026                            Reunion Weekend