I was saddened to learn about the passing of Helen Warden, formerly of Alexandria, who died in Indiana. She and I had been friends for many years and talked regularly on the telephone. I met her and Carlos through my late husband, C.W. Wilson. I pray for Helen’s family during this time of sorrow.

I also extend prayers and sympathy to the family of Luther Lawrence who passed away. I still own some furniture that my son, Ralph, bought me many years ago when Luther worked for Joe Johnson’s furniture store in Smithville. Luther was married to the former Nina Neal.

The Neal family is amazing. Grady and Jean taught their children to be good neighbors. Jean liked to grow a garden and then gave most of the things away; even after canning and freezing them. I should know because she gave a lot to me.

Jean’s daughters, Betty Byford and Diane Evans, still do so much for me; visiting at NHC and bringing flowers and special treats.

Jean and I were good friends when teenage girls. After we both were married, our families were neighbors at one time on Game Ridge near Pine Creek. I remember when Jean and I would make pallets under a shade tree for our children to play while she and I worked in the fields. I still think of those as "good ole days".

Also, my prayers go to the family of Ralph Arnold after his passing. He was married to the former Ethel Young, who was a sister to Felix Young. Felix married my husband’s oldest sister, Ruby Vaughn Young, who lived in McMinnville.

Tim and Ronda Young were Sunday dinner guests of Sue Arnold following church services.

My recent visitors included Diane Kirby, Christine Arnold, Linda Davis, Gracie Bratcher, Donald Lawson, Brother Ricky Arnold, Jo Dean Redmon, Jewell Tate, Sue Arnold, Barbara Vanatta, Ruth Caldwell, Anna Parker along with Ralph and June Vaughn.