SCENE IN PASSING
MARIE WHITEHEAD editor@mediactr.com
These past days have seen a departure of more friends - special people whose deaths bring a flood of memories. Among them was our longtime friend, Frank Gillespie, who with his wife Katie, will be recalled in the hearts of all who enjoyed their time spent at the Cherokee Theatre when it was a main source of movie entertainment. They were a part of our growing community when we arrived June 1, 1950. Friendships can last a lifetime. It was equally devastating to learn of the passing of another great friend, Bill Clayton. His name may not be high on the remembered list of the majority of folks around here. But as I reflected on his role in the Texas House of Representatives, where he served from 1975-83 as Speaker of the House, he provided yeoman service with our State Rep. Emmett Whitehead (the Better Half). There were so many pieces of legislation that affected our area and state employees throughout Texas. Some provided lasting benefits for which we can always be grateful. My Better Half used to tell Speaker Clayton that he was the best West Texas legislator that East Texas ever had.

Closer to home another death strikes the chord of heartbreak. Beth Ann Parrott, the daughter of Mavis Parrott and her late husband Bill, succumbed to an extended bout with cancer. She grew up at Reklaw, graduating from Rusk High School as did her brother Bob. Bill was working for Bearden Furniture Co. when we came to town. Later he served as District Clerk. An accident claimed his life. Mavis was named to succeed her husband, a post she held for a record number of years.

Brooke Watson

Hank Watson dropped by to show us a picture of his beautiful grandchild. It took a bit of persuasion to borrow the photo of Brooke Watson, who graduated from Texas Tech in December, with honors. Magna cum laude, too. Her major is human development and family studies with a minor in mathematics. Hank and spouse Jimmye made the trip for the ceremony. Here's a name you haven't read here since last year. It is Dorothy J. Rambo, former extension service agent in Cherokee County. She always sends New Year's greetings to our staff and her many area friends. Now a resident of Marshall, she retains happy memories of her days in Rusk where she worked in the Courthouse Annex. It once marked the location of the Cherokee County jail. Later it was the library. Just thought you might not know that. We do have many new residents who may want to know more of the local history.

If you didn't hear, the door to Magoline Tosh's room at Lexington Place won the best decorated title during holiday competition. An exquisitely beautiful, singing angel extends holiday greetings. We are led to believe that it is the work of her granddaughter in-law, Bridgett, wife of Robby, an artistic young woman. Magoline is so beloved by family and friends.

Ronny McElroy's son, Brandon, wrote him a letter which he gave me permission to mention. It carries an undertone of sadness and loneliness, but a dedication to duty. Brandon is a serious thinker, student of history and there he is in the so-called cradle of civilization unable to recognize signs of early beginnings. By the time we get through, if ever, in bringing peace to the Middle East, what will be left for recognition? This is an overwhelming topic of debate around the world. We must continue to seek solutions. Even we country folks know that if you stop swimming midstream, you'll drown. Back in 1955 we were cleaning up our office for a big open house to show off new equipment as we upgraded our hot type operation. It was a huge, huge mess. After midnight, the day before, elbow grease was being applied as rapidly as possible. Tired, exhausted, the Better Half asked of our helper, Lithana Session, "Fanny, do you think we'll make it?" And she responded, " We got to make it. We done jumped up." Her wisdom comes to mind with our dilemma in Iraq.

Will this truth be applied to our state government? How can we expect a wealth of agreement after such a disagreeable beginning? But, if the way has been paved for better communication among lawmakers, then we can hope that it is also true that "a bad beginning makes for a good ending." I am ready for more stories that have good endings. Especially the story of fair play for all taxpayers. Now if you think I'm dreaming, don't call to wake me up. Just hang around until May 31 and let's see how the story ends.

When all else fails, try these words of borrowed wisdom: "When we feel like no one is on our side, we have to remind ourselves that no matter what obstacles of life crowd our path, we are never abandoned without an angel walking beside us." May angels watch over you, always. Until next week?