Members of the Classes of 1971 and 1972 gathered for a recent reunion at the home of David and Glenna Wilson. The smiles on the faces tell a story of happy and fond memories as the "We Are Family" tradition continues at Mars Hill Bible School.
ALUMNI MEMORIES:
May White Coil (Class of 1948)
Most important, it was a Christian school! My mother, America White, worked there because she wanted to pay my tuition as we didn’t have much money. Now, my grandson, John Samuel Medley, is in fourth grade… I remember good teachers like Rosemary Pledger and Aldon Hendrix. The first president was Irvin Lee and the first principal was Ralph Snell. I graduated as Valedictorian in 1948! There were only 12 in the first graduating class.
Bill Threet (Class of 1948)
Lester Frawley arranged for me to follow him at North Courtland as their minister. Lindsey Allen taught Bible and encouraged all of us. The school play that year featured Rees Bryant and Elizabeth Foster who played a dating couple; Peggy Foster played Elizabeth’s mother and I played a doctor who was courting Peggy. After Rees and Elizabeth were married and Peggy and I were alone on stage, I had the last line of the play. “And what about me?” (I said to her) with an above normal voice which brought down the house! Also, at one point, Tom Mansel forgot his lines but quickly pulled out his big red and blue bandana and blew his nose loudly (he also got an appropriate laugh from the audience – not like my shrill voice). We were all close to our teachers. One time all the boys went home with Lawrence Taylor and all the girls went home with Gwendolyn Smith (Gwen and Lawrence lived close to each other). We all got together for a picnic. Brother Van jumped every time he squeaked the chalk on the board and we had to stifle our amusement. We loved that man! Thanks for causing me to go back and remember. While at MH I learned a love for God and my classmates, the love that our teachers had for us, and you can be a Christian and enjoy it. MH gave me the drive to serve God, love my fellow man and be a worthy family man. One year started me, step by step and in a small way, to live for God. My folks didn’t have the money to pay tuition, but a very good friend rented space on the midway at the County Fair and sold ice cream. When we split the profits for the week I had enough to pay my way. Thanks be to God!
Libby Gargis Berry (Class of 1949)
My memories of early MH are awesome. The closeness we shared was unreal. Friends I made then are still my friends today. I loved the long bus ride from Spring Valley. I was able to do homework and study for tests on the bus. Brother Van Bradley was a good and funny teacher. I enjoyed him and all of my teachers. Lunch was wonderful. Mrs. Darnell fixed homemade rolls every day. Most of all, learning the Bible and having chapel every day meant so much.
Lisabeth Morris Foster (Class of 1949)
My first memory was of the teachers who gave so much to come from Harding College that year to help us get a good start. They sacrificed salary and time. Bill Cook (chorus director), Rosemary Pledger (typing and shorthand teacher), Lois Hemmingway Lemon (home economics teacher), Delilah Tranum Allen (English teacher) and later Claude Lewis (chorus director) and his wife Madge (who taught piano) were great blessings. A number of preachers gave their time to teach and drive buses to help with expenses. Rayford Henry was our first bus driver; he drove for years, taught, then preached on Sunday. We chanted the generations from Adam to Christ (at Brother Henry’s request to make us behave) as he drove to school. Brother Van A. Bradley would shake his arthritic finger at the boys to get them to behave. He would say, “Never mind boys” or “Hold on boys.” He was a very intelligent math teacher as well as a preacher. Our chapel devotional period was the highlight of the day. We met in the old barn in the morning for singing and reading of the scripture. At noon the old barn would become our lunchroom. When Mrs. Ethel Darnell made homemade rolls the whole school would smell very good. When we had little rain, the red clay became such a cloud of dust that our classmates all became red heads by the end of the week. The experience was worth it all. MH has come a long way with the Lord as its helper.
Nona Lee Behel Barr (Class of 1952)
My favorite memory is that I got to be there the very first day. We met in one of the two small buildings used as an auditorium and office. Bill Cook was the choral director that year and as 400 plus voices sang I thought this had to be a little like what heaven will be like. I was in the eighth grade and received a foundation for a life time. The daily Bible classes and chapel were the icing on the cake. Brother Rayford Henry was my favorite Bible teacher. Mrs. A. R. Hill taught Speech, and under her direction we brought home state honors in drama. I took an interest in communication that resulted in a thirty year career in Speech Pathology and Audiology. Brother Draper, the debate coach, taught us to look at all possibilities. Adaptability and sacrifice were foremost, tuning a barn into a lunchroom, auditorium and bookstore. Claude Lewis taught me music and how to sing. We have kept in touch over the years. I have also kept in touch with Bill Cook. I just spoke to him a few days ago. He still leads singing some and lives in Beaumont Texas.
Helen Gargis Miles (Class of 1952)
MH was special because of the Christian teachers and students. I made life-long friends while there. I also found the love of my life, Clifford Miles. We have been married 58 years.
Clifford Miles (Class of 1953)
Men like Van Bradley, Gilbert Kretzer, Charles Draper and Paul Simon are some of the reasons MH became what it was. Of course, meeting my life mate, Helen, was my greatest blessing.
Van Smelser (Class of 1953)
It is very true according to a wise promotion logo of one of our Christian schools: “Education prepares a student with knowledge on how to ‘make a living,’ however, education from a Christian school prepares and develops values essential for life.” This defines the purpose MH has served for 65 years. The family environment and a Spirit of a “whole hearted” interest in student’s growth and well being was the most impressive factor and mission of MH. The Bible and chorus classes were my most outstanding memories for preparing a foundation of character and an entire system of spiritual values. The need for family values is the motivating force behind all of greatness as that “Light on a Hill.”
Thomas G. B. Cochran (Class of 1953)
All of my teachers had a positive effect on me. I especially remember Van Allen Bradley, Ralph Snell, Richard Taylor, Lester Frawley, Claude Lewis and Charles Draper. I enjoyed every minute of my time at MH; there was a Christian atmosphere which pervaded everything that was done. No student was ever put in position which would violate his conscience.
Mertice Phillips Miles (Class of 1953)
Many teachers and parents made sacrifices, but Van A. Bradley and Lester Frawley stand out in my memory as do my own parents. My mother, of five students, rode the bus with us from Tuscumbia and worked in the lunchroom to help pay our tuition. Van A. Bradley, a retired school principal also rode the bus from Tuscumbia and was my Algebra teacher. Lester Frawley was a former POW and suffered from mephitis. When he returned from military service he was given a 50/50 chance to live. I was in his Bible class (where he taught the book of Job) and also in his biology class. Brother Frawley was cheerful and a great example of hope. All of us walked from classes in the Larimore Home to the renovated barn for lunch and daily chapel services. Occasionally we loaded the buses and went to Pine Street Church of Christ for baptisms. When Virgil Miles returned from military service in Korea his parents urged him to enroll at MH and finish the semester he needed to graduate. It was then we met and married two years later. We celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary on December 24, 2004.
Virgil Miles (Class of 1954)
I returned to Florence after military service in Korea. Lester Frawley, who taught at MH, saw me walking down the street and offered me a ride to my home in Killen. During the next few weeks my parents encouraged me to enroll in MH and finish the semester I missed because of my being drafted. I finished the semester in 1953, but returned to join those who graduated in 1954. To earn a passing grade in Bible one teacher required that I lead a song in chapel. It was then that I learned I was a song leader (at least students were staring to see who was making that strange noise). One of the most important things I learned during that semester at MH was that Mertice Phillips was the girl I wanted to marry.
Kenneth Murphy (Class of 1954)
I met people who became the closest and dearest friends in my life and today are still my dearest friends. The good influence of my friends and teachers there have helped me continually through all these years.
Reba Gargis Hill (Class of 1954)
I enjoyed Sister A. R. Hill’s girl’s Bible class. I met my best friend Norma Darby Johnson and met my sweet heart and life-long companion, Albert Hill, at MH. I loved and appreciated all of my teachers and knew the sacrifice they made (salary). I learned so many values for life there. We not only learned the Bible but how to apply it to our lives. I also enjoyed teaching 12 years and my children, Dee Hill Wear and Timothy Ross Hill, attended MH. All four of my grandchildren, Ross, Shelley, and Amber Hill and Caleb Beck, went to MH. I wouldn’t take anything for my years at MH. Being selected “Miss MH’ while Albert received “Mr. MH” was one of the greatest honors we ever received.
Harold Glen Pigg (Class of 1954)
I started attending MH in 1947 when I was in the 6th grade. I needed MH and its Christian instruction. I was from a poor, but proud background. We had no electric service or public water. My mother was a Christian and she taught us about God from the cradle. When she heard that MH was starting, she and dad worked diligently to see that we were able to go to MH. Thank God for godly women. MH was so great. We had Bible each morning, chapel each morning and prayer three times a day. I became a Christian during my 8th grade year. Brother Richard Taylor put me down in the watery grave of baptism and raised me up as white as snow. He was very encouraging after my baptism, but my mom was the most encouraging. I have so many happy memories: Bible, singing praise to God, chorus, meeting my wife, Margaret Davis Pigg (my universe for 56 years). Thank you MH.
Margaret Anne Davis Pigg (Class of 1955)
I started MH in 1947 with my late brother, William Derrel Davis. Our mother worked in the office. I met my husband, Harold Glen Pigg, at MH. We married in 1955. I owe my Christian life to my late mother and MH in training me in the Bible! I loved all of my teachers. They were true Christian examples. The Bible classes, chapel and chorus were put first. Our daughter Martha Rozanne Pigg graduated from MH in 1974 and was Homecoming Queen and our son Harold Pigg went through the 8th grade.
Hugh Fulford (Class of 1955)
The Debate trips, the state tournament in Tuscaloosa each year, all under the instruction, tutoring and guidance of Charles Draper were among my best memories. The trip in the spring of 1955 to Memphis… The chorus trips with Claude Lewis, especially the one to Florida in 1953/54… The friendships formed that have lasted to the present… The Christian influence wielded by the faculty and administration. All these are important memories of MH.
James Newton (Class of 1955)
Just having the opportunity to attend MH was a tremendous blessing. I am thankful for all the dedicated teachers for the great influence they had on my life. It was great to be able to attend school where a Christian atmosphere existed. A favorite memory? There are too many to list. When my brother, Russell, and my sister, Betty (before her death), get together we always talk about MH and end up laughing about our “fun” times. What a great experience and what great friendships that have lasted a lifetime. Thank you for continuing to provide a Christian education and memories that will last a lifetime.
Juanita Black Rickard (Class of 1957)
I attended MH two years—my seventh grade and senior years. My memories of seventh grade are Brother Elbert Henry and Mrs. Simon being our teachers. I remember we had to memorize the countries of the world. Some of them no longer have the same name. I remember we had the best lunches I had ever eaten. My mother was very sick that year so I didn’t come back until my senior year. I remember the senior trip to Florida with Brother Ed Warren and our senior play “Little Women” directed by Brother Draper. I played the part of ‘Jo’ and still remember some of the lines I had to memorize. I love my classmates and we have get-togethers once a month and have for about ten years. I must also say I even enjoyed the bus rides with Brother Rayford Henry. We were the first class to graduate in the ‘new’ auditorium even if it did have water standing on the floor down by the stage.
Gail Wagnon Sockwell (Class of 1957)
Over 50 years ago, a kind, gentle, soft-spoken man, Brother Irvin Lee, paid a visit to my parents urging them to enroll my brothers and I in a new school being established that would be Bible-based. We were poor country people and my parents had no idea how they would finance such an arrangement; nevertheless, they agreed and were able to see three of their children graduate from MH. It was a somewhat strange arrangement when we arrived on the campus – the buildings were scattered, the cafeteria—which was also used as the auditorium—was converted from a barn; there was a large house (the Larimore House) used as classrooms along with several smaller buildings and there was no gymnasium. During those early days we had what was known as a “rainy day schedule” because we played on red clay fields and during rainy days there was no way we could play. We came from all walks of life. I recall one student coming to school—even during the winter—barefooted. The teachers ranged in age from what seemed very old to very young. Brother Van A. Bradley knew his math but it seemed he had lived long enough to learn it. Brother George Keiffer was quite old but knew how to teach Bible. Then there were the young ones like Brother Richard Taylor and Dorothy Kidd Behel. All were patient and interested in the welfare of the students beyond the classroom even though they carried heavy loads to provide for their families while teaching. The chapel periods stand out in my memory as very influential. Brother Ralph Snell, also known as “Snoop”, did a fantastic job in the elementary chapel. Even now, I would like to attend the daily chapel programs. What would I be today without the influence of MH Bible School? I am indeed thankful for that visit with my parents and the decision they made that day.
DAN GLENN, JR. (Class of 1959)
“To sing once is to pray twice.” I was five-years-old starting first grade in 1947. We sang every day. I still sing every day. I have sung professionally from Canada to the Caribbean, Australia to Israel. I include a song from the old Blue-back hymnal in every concert.
ANN KRETZER HESTER (Class of 1961)
Elementary chapel with Ralph Snell directing was the best “Bible” class I had at MH. A close second was 5th grade Bible with Mrs. Aurelia Underwood. I was also there in 1958-59 when we moved into the new building with an auditorium. That was exciting. Home economics with Janie Hanback was also memorable. I have fond memories of the lunchroom and chapel in the old barn. I am thankful my parents sacrificed to send me to MH. My classmates are still my best friends and we get together at least once a month.
WILETHA (LEA) GRUBBS BLACK (Class of 1962)
Everything was good about MH. I appreciate my parents making the effort for me to have a Christian education. Even in my day MH offered a superior education. I had one year of (keyboarding) typing with Mrs. Taylor. We had blank keys and had to memorize the keys. This one year has served me well all these years. Mrs. Darnell’s good cooking and homemade rolls helped me get through the day.
GLENDA HEARD DAVIS (Class of 1962)
I was blessed to attend MH for twelve wonderful years. Brother Ralph Snell made sure that my two sisters and I could attend. Ella Rose Heard Williams graduated in 1953 and Jo Nell Heard Cross graduated in 1957. I suppose my memories begin with riding the school bus. Two of my drivers were Billy Weaver and Dickie Gray. I have wonderful memories of all my classmates and teachers and I don’t want to leave any teachers out. But I have especially fond memories of Robert (Bob) Simmons, Wayne Emmons, Kenneth Davis, Jane Hanback, Lawrence Williams, Ralph Snell and Edward Harper. I remember Mrs. Pate, Mrs. McGarity, Nolan Oldham and Gifford Myhan.
I am so thankful for all of my classmates, many of whom attended all twelve years. I enjoyed student council, chorus, being co-editor of the Mizpah with Laurel Shannon Sewell, our many school trips for student council, the yearbook trips, and all of our chorus trips. On our wonderful trip to Washington, D.C. (our senior class trip) we stayed one night in Williamsburg, VA where Richard and Mabel Taylor were doing mission work. This past Sunday (a little over 49 years after I was first there) my husband, son, daughter-in-law, granddaughter and I worshiped at the Williamsburg Church of Christ. I was so happy and thankful to see how the church had grown from the tiny congregation to a congregation of around 200 members. I have too many memories to share, but I love MH.
NELDA JEAN BLANKENSHIP SMELSER (Class of 1962)
The social climate of MH brings out the Christian attributes of a student. School friends enhance the chances of a student living a successful life.
JANE KENNEDY PHILLIPS (Class of 1964)
Looking back I realize the best years at MH were my early years there. I remember the “barn” where we had classes, lunch and chapel. I now appreciate all of the teachers who taught great Bible classes and made sacrifices to teach there. My third grade teacher, Mrs. Billingsley, comes to mind. She would take our class over to visit Brother Virgil Larimore. He was always thrilled with our visits. She was elderly but a great teacher. I am proud to say I attended MH for 12 years, had two children graduate there and now have two grandsons at MH.
HELEN BEHEL SANDERSON (Class of 1964)
I began attending MH in the 10th grade, having come from a public school. One of the highlights of the day was riding Rayford Henry’s school bus. He was such a wonderful and kind man. I also enjoyed daily chapel where we worshipped in song, prayer and devotionals. My senior year was fun, but there was a time in our lives that the direction of our country changed. It was during Bible class with Brother Lawrence Williams. We had just finished our exam when he broke the sad news to us that President John F. Kennedy had been assassinated. This was indeed a very shocking and sad day. The following spring, in March 1964, our senior class went to Washington, D.C. on the usual senior trip. We visited the gravesite of President Kennedy. While we were there we observed Mrs. Kennedy and Robert Kennedy bring shamrocks and place them on President Kennedy’s grave near the “Eternal Flame”. Some of us appeared in the newspaper in the picture with Mrs. Kennedy and Robert Kennedy. This was a very memorable time for all of our class.
FRANCES DANLEY WESTMORELAND (Class of 1965)
I remember having chapel every day with Brother Ralph Snell learning Bible facts, books of the Bible, generations, etc.
JIM HANSON (Class of 1965)
MH was my “home away from home” in all aspects.
BECKY SMELSER BRAND (Class of 1966)
I came to MH in 1956 when my family moved to Florence so their children could have the blessings of a Christian education. I was in 3rd grade and Mrs. Jewel Kendrick was my teacher. I remember the warmth, the love, the secure feeling I had as a child that was different from the public school experience. I loved Brother Snell’s chapel, tether ball, snow cones at recess, and trying to stay warm in the 4th grade class that met in the barn. I remember how delicious the lunches were. Another heartbeat of the school was its basketball team. From the beginning I had a passion for the Panthers and always wanted to support and cheer them on. It was an honor to serve as Homecoming Queen my senior year. I loved singing in the chorus and that played a big part in daily life, programs and trips for six years. I missed this group so much after graduation. We were taught respect for each other and all authority figures. It was our home extended. I could never have made it without Brother Oldham unlocking the building for me after hours so I could retrieve a book I forgot to bring home. We walked to school; there was no car pool. I loved walking home with the Snell’s children and others. MH was a warm, safe, happy place where I could grow and thrive. I know now how very privileged I was to have this unique, rich experience. It is priceless. It taught and reinforced morals and helped form my dreams. I loved Home Economics classes that taught skills I would use in my home someday. I am thankful for all money and time given to make MH great. May it continue to help each child feel valued and believed in and may God’s spirit surround it and protect it from harm.
SHELIA HENRY GEAN (Class of 1972)
I have so many fond memories of MHBS. I remember walking across a BIG campus in the first grade to the separate buildings (like a building that looked like a barn, as I remember, to eat lunch). I remember Brother Morris teaching us “love to study” in the 7th grade. I remember wonderful chapel sessions with great preachers of the day, like Marshal Keeble. I remember Bible class teachers like Derrel Davis and Lawrence Williams who helped me grow in the knowledge of God’s word. I remember delicious rolls in the cafeteria with extras when everyone was served. I remember running to catch the bus as Rayford Henry threatened to pull off the parking lot without me. I remember singing “Bless Be the Tie That Binds” with the class of 1972 and sitting in a circle on the front lawn in the sunshine after lunch. The friendships, values, doctrine and discipline taught at MH influence my daily walk and decisions unto this day.
TEDDY BUTLER COPELAND (Class of 1972)
I remember elementary chapel with Brother Ralph Snell and, of course, eating lunch in the old barn! Brother Henry’s “quickies” (corn dogs) were always a special treat. We were scared of the Larimore Home during recess-though it was not haunted! I was so glad when it was restored. One of my favorite high school teachers was Betty Hamblen. She made literature fun and really encouraged me in my writing. To me what makes MH special is the spiritual emphasis and the closeness of friendships - like a family. I am so thankful I got to experience it and my four children did as well. I also remember the basketball game where Glen Lewis scored 17 points in one minute and 59 seconds!
CAROLE NANCE McCLURE (Class of 1972)
Brother Barfield’s Speech class, when I was a junior, was one of my best memories. He’s such an interesting, wonderful teacher. I was blessed to have had him for both that class and senior Bible. I will never forget his assignment to present a story, poem, etc. in front of the whole class. I still remember how nervous I was. I also remember Jim Stanley’s Chorus my junior and senior years, singing praises and enjoying our trips and multiple singings at various churches. The closeness of our classes and the memories of a gentler time are special.
I had many wonderful teachers in my years at MH.
SHARON TAYS SCROGGINS (Class of 1975)
For many reasons, MH will always be special to me and my family, but one thing that stands out in my memory is that it was not simply a place where I “went to” school each day. MH is where families come together to support each other and the school. Some fond memories include raising money to tile the classroom floors in the elementary building and daddy and Mrs. Horsman laying the tile in our room. I also remember him working at the old gym (the only one at that time) on weekends to make repairs, replace lights in the scoreboard, and to help rebuild it after the tornado damage. My devotion and loyalty to MH is, no doubt, a result of seeing the personal sacrifices my parents made to support the school, not just financially, but through the many hours that they devoted to supporting the sports programs, cheerleaders, students, and school administrators. In looking at the big picture it is evident that the sacrifices my parents made are really not all that unique. At MH, that’s just the way we roll!
REGINA TERRY EARWOOD (Class of 1977)
Mrs. Rita May, who taught business classes, helped me in many ways. Her dedication to me as a student and her knowledge and skills made her stand out in my mind. As I look back on those days, as a MH student we were looked at differently in the community because of MH’s conservative standards. I appreciate the Christian education, and have been blessed by being able to give my children a similar experience.
BARRY W. McCLURE (Class of 1980)
I know it sounds trivial now but to a teenager, the sporting activities were the greatest memories. Playing basketball in front of such a great fan base was a bit of a high…that was special as were winning the two state championships. As I look back, I have great memories of all the teachers, but Kenny Barfield's and Mary Alice Wilhelm’s classes impacted me most. The math, science, and speech classes have been key ingredients in my life. And probably, more importantly, I will never forget Mrs. Reba Hammond’s demonstration of forgiveness; how she gave a mischievous teenager a clean slate and a chance to make another first impression, I look back now and see that as a perfect example of Jesus. There are too many other good memories…Seigenthaler, Lumpkins, Hanback, McGuire, etc. Thank you all. I spent 13 years at MH (K-12). The friends I made are my friends for life. I’ve not seen that at many other schools.
TODD CHASTAIN (Class of 1983)
The class that I remember most was senior Bible with Lawrence Williams. Our study of the book of Hebrews was challenging but very rewarding. This class and Brother Williams in particular have had a positive and lasting influence on my life. Thank you Brother Williams.
MARCIA JONES POSEY (Class of 1983)
Everyone and everything at MH had an impact on me. I still thank God that my parents sent me to MH. It seemed as if every person there cared about us. The lunchroom ladies always made me feel special when I came through the line. They were always smiling and having fun with us. I have always felt that Christian education is a little piece of “Heaven on earth”! Last April, my son attended Jr./Sr. Banquet with Gracie Garrett. My sister (Janie Walton) and I came to Turtle Point to take pictures. She and I were separated so I felt a little uncomfortable and out of place as I made my way to the back terrace. Standing by the door was Mr. Barfield. I began to say something about crashing the party. He made a statement to me that meant a lot. He said, “You’re not crashing. Alumni are always family and welcome at any event!” Wow! That is just not the sentiment of most public school systems!! And that is what they will never have that MH does! Keep that attitude!! That is what makes MH so special to me! Thank you!
ANGELA LONGSHORE MANN (Class of 1984)
MH is special to me for many reasons. It’s where I grew up from elementary through middle school and high school. When you spend that much time in one place, it becomes your home. I was comfortable there. I was loved there. I was supported there. It was MY home. I was encouraged not only to learn “school” lessons but also life lessons. I can still quote Matthew chapter 5 because Brother Ralph Snell helped us memorize it verse by verse every day of elementary chapel. Brother Robert Huffaker was our principal in those days. Mrs. Dorothy Behel was in the library and Jewel Kendrick was in the music room. The teachers truly cared and helped us grow and mature as they lived Christian lives. High school brought more challenges and more opportunities. Brother Lawrence Williams was our principal then. From the basketball court, (with Beth Brewer and Mike Mitchell) to Drivers Ed, (with Mr. Charles Morris) to senior English, (with Mr. Carl Seigenthaler, Sr.) to junior Bible (with Dr. Kenny Barfield), I learned life lessons that I hold on to today. I am so thankful for their patience and wisdom. If I were a student today, I would listen more, tell them ‘thank you’ more, and enjoy every single day. I am proud to say I am an alumnus of MH.
ANNA WILSON BURNLEY (Class of 1993)
Being part of the MH family has been one of the biggest blessings of my life because that’s truly what it is – a family. I still stay in touch with so many friends and teachers even 18 years later. From K to 12th grade I was blessed year after year with great teachers. Favorite memories are mostly from traveling to and cheering for basketball and the chorus trips and drama productions. There were so many fun times! Now as a new parent, I can’t wait for my own girls to experience 13 years of growing spiritually and academically while making amazing friends and unforgettable memories. My daughter is a fourth generation MH student so, in our family, it’s tradition and we are glad to be back!
SARAH RIDINGER (Class of 2002)
I was at MH from 5th through 12th grades and to this day I remember Mrs. Lansdell’s Bible class, Mr. Tays’ “Countries & Caps”, Mrs. Judith Thompson’s “Kittens Hate Dogs & Dogs Can’t Meow” (for the metric units) as well as her unique way of teaching us mean, median and mode. Laurie Mitchell’s history class was wonderful and I can still sing the Preamble to the Constitution. High school memories center around being a part of MH’s first “Celebration” Show Choir and having the best senior Honors English with GTS (Gina Tur South). Coach Williams’ history classes were always interesting and Opry Days were fun! His rendition of “Tupelo Honey” is great! We saw Les Miserables during senior Honors English. Biology and Honors Biology with Bebe Swinea was amazing! Mr. Key was a fabulous Chemistry teacher! I wish I had just 1% of his enthusiasm to share with my students. I made friends at MH from 5th through 12th grades and while most of us have drifted apart it is pleasant to be “friends” on Facebook and see they are doing well!
EMILY HOVATER (Class of 2006)
The teachers that had the biggest impact on me were Mr. Key and his Physical Science and Chemistry classes, Mrs. Swinea and her Marine Biology class, Mr. Krieger and Band, and Mrs. Grossheim’s classes. My favorite memory was all the times I got to be around teachers that tried their best to help us with whatever we students needed. Mr. Krieger and Band class was what made MH special to me. It was never a class, it was a time of day where I was doing something I enjoyed. The A’s I got every semester were an added bonus. Band was about the music, not the trips or the competitions. It was the one time all through high school that I was able to shine at something that I was good at and loved to do.
FAITH LANDERS (Class of 2007)
My fondest memory at MH was winning the 2A Women’s State Basketball Championship in 2005. Through our run for the Blue Map, the entire school came together to support us. From kindergarten to 6th grade to 12th grade, people embraced and believed in us. Teachers wrote us letters and praised our every step. That brief moment in time taught me vital lessons about teamwork, kindness and love. I look back on that memory as so much more than a basketball season. It was magical and unforgettable. Go Lady Panther and Panthers! |
