#funeral flowers South Carolina

[thebreakfastgenie]

For the WIP list game, tell me about all or any of your TWW fics! Bonus for 'donna moss fic 2' because that is one hundo how I name my files.

this got real long so I put it under a cut

so donna moss fic 2 is called that because many years ago I had a fic called "donna moss fic" that was supposed to be quick and ended up being 10k and taking like six months. that fic became Start Over. then in 2020 I watched the When We All Vote Special and two things happened. one, I rewatched the show and landed back in the fandom after drifting away because I basically could not watch it while Trump was in office. two, I noticed a detail in Hartsfield's Landing I had never really paid a lot of attention to before. Josh says the Flenders took Donna in and fed her, and that she was pretty pathetic. I realized this was in New Hampshire, probably right after she joined the campaign the first time. I once spent a night with volunteers who housed campaign workers, and I thought that would be a really fun story to tell about Donna.

and somehow this turned into doing the Donna campaign backstory fic, again. the full title is "donna moss fic 2?? why are we doing this" because why the hell I would that fic again after what I went through the first time, I don't know. but I do know. I can do it better now. it's not a rewrite of Start Over, it's an alternate version. some things are very similar and a few lines are exactly the same, but there are some differences. I revised the timeline and geography, for one thing. this fic drove me to the brink of actual insanity (it was lockdown time to be fair) trying to figure out the fictional presidential primary schedule. I also checked the actual color of the "Welcome to New Hampshire" sign in person (I was going there anyway lol).

the idea is that each chapter is a state Donna goes to, either with the campaign or on her own. there's a prologue about the end of her drive to New Hampshire, which is the only part that is strictly speaking "written." the chapters are New Hampshire, South Carolina, maybe South Dakota depending on if I think it needs another campaign chapter for pacing, Illinois, California, Wisconsin, New Hampshire (reprise) and probably an epilogue in DC, tying together the information we have from In the Shadow of Two Gunmen, 17 People, and Hartsfield's Landing.

when I wrote Start Over I kind of side-stepped the issue of Josh's father's death and this time I am attacking it head on. I should probably keep this to myself for maximum impact, but oh well, it'll be long enough for you to forget. the idea this time around is that she tries to leave before Josh gets back from his father's funeral, but he comes back early because of course he does and catches her in the act. I have a very heartbreaking scene planned. this is not a Josh/Donna fic because I can't stand pre-series J/D, but like most of what I write, it's written with the idea that these people do fall in love and get together a few years down the road. it's about the beginning of their friendship, with a few charged moments, but it's more about Donna as a person. I'm also trying to pepper in some backstory of how she ended up with Dr. Freeride in the first place and why she feels enough loyalty to go back. the scene where she actually does come back is so vivid in my mind. I can hear the exact inflection of "thank god, there's a pile of stuff on the desk."

the planned epilogue is the first "anniversary" when Donna gets flowers from Josh for the first time. I thought about folding in an idea I had for the transition, where Josh is forced by Leo to give Donna a job interview as a formality, but I don't think that fits here so it'll be on its own whenever I get to it. obviously the main relationship Donna has at this point is with Josh, but I want to show the beginning of her friendships with the other senior staff, too.

the original first scene, before I decided to add a prologue, was going to be Josh dropping Donna at the Flenders' house for the night, having called in a favor since they don't have a hotel room for her. the Flenders proceed to freak her out by serving some kind of local New Hampshire dinner and a full breakfast at 5am. that will all still happen, of course. basically I want to fill in the gaps!

here's a bit of the prologue. I hate writing opening lines, and this is one of my favorites because it's the rare one I actually like:

In Massachusetts, she almost lost her nerve. The broken-hearted rage that had propelled her across six states faltered as she waited to merge onto I-495 and it occurred to her, finally, how crazy this was. She could get off at the next exit, turn the car around, and go home. She could stay with her parents, hold her head high, grit her her teeth through the humiliation. She could do exactly what everyone expected of her.  A space appeared on the interstate; she nestled her dusty car between a shiny red sedan and an old silver van. Flying down the highway, she thought of the life she was leaving behind. Her dead-end job, her unfinished education, her tiny apartment, and him. She floored the gas, outrunning her doubts, her fears, her insecurities. 

I will be doing strawberry fields in another ask but just a quick (lol) rundown of the other two west wing fics:

the ellsberg variant

the ellsberg variant is called that because it sounds cool but it's also descriptive. Daniel Ellsberg worked at the state department and leaked the pentagon papers (this is in the movie the post) and in retaliation a group of guys better known for other work broke into his psychiatrist's office and tore the place up. either they were just trying to intimidate him, or they were looking for his file to find embarrassing information and just didn't find it because they were incompetent (the other work was Watergate). so I thought, what if that happened to Josh, but they actually did just get pictures or copies of the file and leave without evidence?

so in my imagining, burglars break into a psychiatrist's office in Virginia or Maryland because they know there are high profile clients, and just get photos and copies of any files they can, to sell to whoever might be interested. the Republicans plan to use the information to embarrass Josh during the hearings, like they did with Leo, but Bartlet takes the censure deal before they get the chance, so they end up dumping it in a tabloid in order to damage Bartlet's re-election campaign with claims that his staff is mentally incompetent and he's too checked out with MS to notice (the headline is "Bartlet's Loony Bin").

the White House finds out when an advance copy is delivered by messenger in a brown envelope to CJ's office. they try to figure out who warned them and why, as well as what they can do about it. CJ enlists Danny to help (without giving him the full story, but he figures a lot out) and he finds out about the break-in, which was downplayed by the security company to avoid embarrassment, meaning the patients (including Josh) were never informed their records may have been compromised.

I'm not sure where exactly it goes from here. the first scene is the delivery of the envelope from Carol's POV. I might have Josh call Mandy in as a personal consultant (I just want to give Mandy real character development) and Amy will probably be involved in some way too. there's definitely a conversation where Josh is worried about the Oval Office incident being made public, and Leo assures him the four people who were there (Josh, Leo, Sam, Jed) won't tell anyone, Josh points out they already did, they told Stanley. Josh tries to resign, naturally, but Jed refuses to let him. I know it ends okay, I just don't know exactly how, or have the intrigue plot worked out. I do have a backstory for the person who sent them the advance copy: an employee at the tabloid who can't afford to quit her job, but thinks printing the story is wrong. her father is a Vietnam vet with PTSD and everything. I don't know if the White House staff ever find out who she is, but it might be fun to end with a flashback to her sending the advance. there's also some exploration of Josh's trust in his therapist being violated and where he goes from there.

don't be a hero

I wrote almost all of don't be a hero on notebook paper during psychology class in college and a couple years ago I finally typed up what I have. in theory it just needs an ending, but I can write so much better now, I started rewriting it, and just haven't gotten around to finishing it.

in 2008, President Santos is giving a speech at a university and presenting an award to a professor who has consulted with the White House on counterterrorism work, when a bomb goes off in the auditorium. The target was the professor, who is Muslim (there had been an Islamophobic hate crime in the news recently when I started this). Santos breaks his arm, Sam gets some cuts when a light falls on him, but the Secret Service does their job and gets them out of there. Josh had stepped out to call Lou, who is back at the White House working on a critical vote, and Donna had gone to get him. Donna hurts her foot and can't walk, so Josh helps her out, and on the way out he thinks he sees someone trapped. While Donna is talking to the paramedics, Josh runs back inside to look for the girl he thinks he saw.

the girl is real and he finds her and is able to unblock the door that was trapping her in, but inhales a lot of smoke in the process and passes out. the girl runs outside and tells the firefighters what happened, and they go in and pull Josh out. the scene has mostly been cleared at this point, but Sam is still looking for Josh, and end up identifying him to the first responders, which contributes to the ensuing media circus when it comes out that the White House Chief of Staff ran into a burning building. Josh wakes up in the hospital and gets chastised by Santos and Donna and also most of the Bartlet era staff via phone. Donna also has a talk with him about how she's proud, but she was terrified. He also has a nice visit with Amanda, the girl he saved.

When I finish the rewrite, I'm adding a storyline where the White House communications staff suggest trying to control what Amanda says to the press, and Josh insists that she's 19 years old and someone tried to kill her, so she can say whatever she wants, but asks CJ to come in and advise her on how to handle the press, for her own wellbeing. Danny also tells Josh he thinks the media attention on the rescue is going to dig up personal history and find out about Joanie, so he should consider making a statement. He tells Lou about Joanie for the first time in the process of preparing that, and Lou wonders why he never told her before.

I think it will end with Josh and Donna's wedding a couple months later.

[wutbju]

Delores Briggs Forehand joined the Heavenly choir of angels on April 25, 2023 at the age of 95. Born in Portsmouth, Ohio in 1927 to parents George and Mabel Briggs. Delores was predeceased by her parents; husbands, Firman Cuthriell, Jr. and Willis Weymouth Forehand; and son, Terry Wayne Cuthriell.

She is survived by her daughter, Denise Yvonne Forehand and her children, Jessica, Travis and Brett; a daughter-in-law, Deborah Cuthriell and her children, Christopher, Rachel, Sarah, and Hannah; 19 great-grandchildren from both families; a loving sister, Nancy Carolyn Briggs Vaughan; nieces, Debbie, Donna and great-niece, Kaleigh Mabel; and a nephew, Tom Forehand.

Delores was a graduate of Deep Creek High School and Bob Jones University. She pursued music studies at Southern Baptist Seminary. Her voice teacher, Nora Reynolds, was a great friend and mentor.

Delores was a pioneer in Christian Broadcasting when it began as WYAH-TV in the 1960s and appeared weekly on her own program for 8 years. She recorded several albums and her music can be found world-wide on Amazon and Spotify. She served as director of music and education in North Carolina and Virginia.

Delores was a long-time active member of Deep Creek Baptist Church in Chesapeake and loved teaching God's word and singing sacred music. She was truly loved by her family and so many friends within the Deep Creek community.

Funeral services will be held at Deep Creek Baptist Church on Saturday, April 29, at 1 p.m. The family will receive friends the hour before the service at the church. Burial will follow in Olive Branch Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Foodbank of South Hampton Roads. Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel is assisting the family.

[hbhughes]

Diane Palute Moser

Diane Palute Moser, of Kingston, passed away Dec. 20th, 2023, at the age of 84, at home surrounded by loved ones. Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late William and Susan Drozda Palute.

She graduated from Wilkes-Barre Township High School and went on to earn her nursing degree from Luzerne Community College. She started her career at Nesbitt Memorial Hospital in Kingston and later retired from Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. 

In addition to her parents, Diane was preceded in death by her husband Daniel, son Brian Moser, grandson Baby Daniel George Murphy, and sister Lois Isopi. 

She is survived by her children Susan and partner Joe Potak, residing in Texas, Donald and Alice Moser, residing in South Carolina, Denise Ritts in Kingston, and Cynthia and Brian Murphy at Harvey’s Lake. Also, nine grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, her sister Elaine Cawley and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, January 6, 2023 at St. Nicholas R.C. Church, 226 S. Washington St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701. Family and friends are asked to go directly to the church. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Hugh B. Hughes & Son, Inc. Funeral Home, Forty Fort.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org.

[ledenews]

Ross Herman Stoltz, Wheeling Philanthropist, Passes Away

Ross Herman Stoltz, 75, of Wheeling, WV, passed away Sunday, February 19, 2023, at Liza’s Place.

He was born in Naponee, NE, a son of the late Otto “Mike” and Mildred (née Whitney) Stoltz. Ross is known for his long and prestigious career with McDonald’s Restaurants, where he started as a crew person at the age of 17 alongside his older brother Clyde. Taking a break from his career, Ross enlisted into the army during the Vietnam War where he graduated from officer candidate school and achieved the rank of 1st Lieutenant. He was stationed at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina. After his three years of service in the army, Ross went to college at Nebraska University as an English major where he met his wife, Carol. After college, Ross resumed his career with McDonald’s corporation and directed numerous restaurants in the Pittsburgh region. In 1989 he was offered the position of McDonald’s liaison in Europe. After much thought, and being a devoted family man, he decided instead to become a McDonald’s franchisee. While owning and operating twelve McDonald’s restaurants, Ross and his family created thousands of jobs in Wheeling and across the Ohio Valley. He was especially admired for his professional drive, and his loyalty and dedication to employee growth. Ross was a participant in the McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity program, helping many of his employees achieve their high school diplomas and college degrees. Ross was also known for his commitment to upholding McDonald’s Golden Standards. During his career, he was a recipient of several awards including the Ronald Award (twice), the People’s Champion Award, and the prestigious Golden Arch Award, an award given only to the top performing 1% of McDonald’s franchisees in the world. Ross was heavily involved in charities and had a passion for supporting the community. He has supported many local schools, organizations, children’s sports teams, and countless fundraisers. He participated in McDonald’s MAC grants for teachers for over 20 years, and was a board member of Ronald McDonald House in Morgantown. Ross was also dedicated to sponsoring the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference and had great pride for the McDonald’s OVAC All-Star Marching Band, whom he supported for over 25 years. His philanthropy with the OVAC earned him placement in the OVAC Hall of Fame, one of his most prized achievements. Ross was a fan and major sponsor of the Wheeling Nailers hockey team, whom he also supported for over 25 years. Ross was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 364, located in his hometown of Naponee, Nebraska. During his spare time Ross enjoyed gardening, watching sports and the Wheeling Nailers, going to rock concerts, and proudly loved watching his grandkids play youth hockey. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his two brothers, Raymond and Clyde Stoltz. Ross is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Carol (Cutright) Stoltz; three children, Amanda (Glenn) Moore of Wheeling, Michael (Connie) Stoltz of San Diego, and Robert “Bob” Stoltz of Wheeling; two grandchildren, Brenden and Tessa Moore; several in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins; and his beloved cat, Fred. Family and friends will be received Wednesday, February 22, 2023 from 12-3 and 5-7 pm at Altmeyer Funeral Homes, Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger St. Interment will be held at a later date at Naponee Cemetery, Naponee, NE. Ross’s family would like to thank the staff and volunteers at Liza’s Place for their excellent care and service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Morgantown or to the Naponee Booster Club in Naponee, C/O www.tmcfunding.com. Read the full article

[usacounselingcredit]

Boston Massachusetts Florist: Mr. Thomas "Tommy" Edward Glenn Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Boston Massachusetts Florist

Mr. Thomas "Tommy" Edward Glenn Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

by noreply@blogger.com (Loni Cardon) on Friday 17 February 2023 09:34 PM UTC-05

Read the obituary of Mr. Thomas "Tommy" Edward Glenn (1973 - 2023) from West Union, SC. Leave your condolences and send flowers to the family to ... Providence Providence RI Rhode Island February 16, 2023 at 12:37PM

Hammond Louisiana Ukiah California Dike Iowa Maryville Missouri Secretary Maryland Winchester Illinois Kinsey Alabama Edmundson Missouri Stevens Village Alaska Haymarket Virginia Newington Virginia Edwards Missouri https://unitedstatesvirtualmail.blogspot.com/2023/02/boston-massachusetts-florist-mr-thomas.html February 17, 2023 at 10:56PM Gruver Texas Glens Fork Kentucky Fork South Carolina Astoria Oregon Lac La Belle Wisconsin Pomfret Center Connecticut Nason Illinois Roan Mountain Tennessee https://coloradovirtualmail.blogspot.com/2023/02/boston-massachusetts-florist-mr-thomas.html February 18, 2023 at 12:41AM from https://youtu.be/GuUaaPaTlyY February 18, 2023 at 01:47AM

[elcollinsfuneralhomellc]

8 Tips for Selecting Funeral Flower Arrangements

The loss of a loved one is excruciatingly painful for family and friends. During this tough time, the gift of a floral arrangement can be a sign of love, strength and support to the grieving. However, choosing the perfect funeral floral arrangements can be overwhelming, especially with numerous florists out there. Below are a few tips for selecting the right funeral floral arrangement.

1. Know The Flowers

Certain flowers actually carry certain meanings. Therefore, a florist would advise you to pick carefully. For instance, geraniums indicate comfort while tulips are for care or forgiveness. It's better to know what each flower signifies before getting one.

2. Know The Colors

Just as flowers mean something, their colors also indicate a different meaning. For instance, blue stands for peace or serenity while red means courage, beauty or love. If you pick a flower you love, make sure the meaning aligns with your sentiments.

3. Choose A Proper Design

Not every style of floral arrangement goes with a funeral setting. The most appropriate designs for funerals include casket arrangements, sympathy bouquets, wreaths and vases.

4. Get The Timing Right 

You must also keep in mind the time of sending the floral arrangement while selecting one. You can send floral arrangements on the day of the wake of the burial. You can also send them during the memorial service.

5. Know The Recipient

Cultural differences also come in the way of one's perception of certain flowers. For instance, Greeks often prefer white flowers during such sad times.

6. Write A Proper Message

While it can be hard to express your feelings during these times, we urge you to be mindful of the feelings of the deceased's friends and family while drafting a small message.

7. Don't Go Overboard

You have to remember that it's not always better to get bigger, flashier floral arrangements. It's always best to keep it simple and not make a large display out of it.

8. Contact A Florist ASAP

Once you know what it is you want to send, make sure you contact a florist. The last thing you want to do is send your condolences late.

Are you confused about which florist to go to? You can reach out to us at E. L. Collins Funeral Home. We offer all kinds of funeral arrangement services. You will find the perfect flower that you're looking for here.

[ginwhitlock]

Wanna tell us your headcanons about Jasper being married in his human life? How does that history come into play in his vampire life?

You are an oasis in the desert THANK YOU YES (this is going to be very long bc of background I’m sorry)

Alright (I say that... too much) in the time period Jasper was in, early/late 1860s, it actually wasn’t a huge thing for him to be married by 19. What I mean by that is: most people were not married that young, even soldiers (on either side). Is that shocking? It was to me when I found out because weren’t we all told that ppl were popping out babies at 16? (And some were, and actually MOST women around that time period were pregnant on their wedding day according to birth records (read: baptismal records)) But marriage wasn’t usually occurring, especially for men, until about 22 or 23 (my family records from that time period show that).

So history doesn’t tell us he had to be married. BUT what do we know about Jas? Mans a romantic (at least when he’s not fighting for his life) and I believe he would’ve gotten married before signing up for the war. I believe he was 19 when he was turned and around 16/17 when he signed up because he faked how old he was to get in. So married very very young. But it wasnt super uncommon even if the normal age was like 22.

Okay, so... Mrs.Whitlock. Childhood sweethearts. Most likely the daughter of someone in the town closest to him, or in his town, maybe the sheriff (haha yeah this could be a time travel jasper/Bella fic) or another farmer. My favorite idea is that she’s the daughter of the local preacher. In the modern day south (I have experience in both rural Texas and rural/small town South Carolina), you’ve got a church on every corner. But it wasn’t exactly that way back then. You had one, or a couple maybe, and they were of one faith or the other. Methodist was the biggest in that time in that region, so I’m going with that (which works because... I’m the granddaughter of a Methodist preacher... I’m definitely not self inserting...). Let’s say her name is Adelaide (but Bell would also be quite a common name).

Okay so daughter of the preacher, Jasper had loved her his entire life. From birth, to working the fields, to the day when the succession was announced: he kept Adelaide close. With the war looming it was only a matter of time before he was forced into grey. There was a very hard conversation with his father, ending in a stiff ‘yes’ to be allowed to propose to her, as they had been courting, supervised, for quite a long time.

Their wedding was small, those who could make it could come, any northern parts of either family were obviously not in attendance. Adelaide learned a multitude of things in those long hours: Jasper can dance quite well (evidenced by the sullen imprint of his little sisters hell on his boot toe), Jasper’s mother treated her like a porcelain doll in every way that count for an unknown reason, and her husband never took his eyes off of her the entire ceremony.

They had never had time alone when they were courting, just the occasional refreshment fetching when he was out in the field, but her mother always watched from the house. Once, his oldest sister Birdie had run off after telling Jasper’s father she’d go with them to supervise a horse ride. In the small time they got that afternoon he had pressed his lips faintly into the corner of her mouth, not wanting to corrupt the preachers daughter who had just spent the last sun-filled hour reading to him from a book of poems she wasn’t supposed to have. Chaste kisses after that day have never been enough. They would never been enough.

When he got called away for duty, it felt like a funeral. The tears in his sisters eyes wouldn’t stop running, his small compared to his tall frame, look even more fragile. The only thing he could find of life in her was her unusually pink skin and the shine of her brunette curls.

Jasper went off with a picture of Adelaide in his breast pocket, a locket with his parents inside, and left behind the one and only child he didn’t think he had.

He doesn’t return home before the baby is born, and by the time he recieves news of his son’, he’s already on Maria’s guard.

They say that human memories fade, and for the most part that’s a truth, but the stubborn ones, the ones that hurt, stay. It isn’t until Peter and Charoltte leave him to travel the earth by himself that he goes to her grave. Maria let him keep her picture, if not to remind him he can never go back.

He finds his parents, his sisters all with unsurprising last names, even one for him— empty like the rest of the soldiers he’s forgotten. The grave next to his is... shiney. I mean, not like some granite plot you’d find in modern times but clean enough for evidence of upkeep. His delicate fingertips run over the imprint of letters, her name swirls just slightly in the stone, her birth date a known one, her death date... too young. She was in her 40s when she passed, only one child listed.

“She died of a broken heart.”

The voice somehow startles Jasper and he jumps to his feet, the want to bear his teeth just under his skin. Years from Maria have only slightly built his resolve. His red eyes shine into the young man infront of him, a bouquet of lillies hanging from his fist. He doesn’t look frightened.

“My great great grandfather always said that about his mother. It’s a shame how she went. Always waiting for another letter.” The man with his mouth walks past the vampires form and settles the flower into the soil. Jasper feels as if he has no air in his lungs. The man carries on. “He’s the one that wrote to do this. Come care for her after all this time.” He stood, rubbed the dirt off his knees and stepped back, almost shoulder to shoulder with the blond.

“He has this wild idea his father would come back for her. Come see what he left for himself.” He sighed and looked to the still silent man. “Everyone knows he was killed on one of those battle fields. His heart just couldn’t take it. Kinda like hers, ya know?”

Jasper had only found his voice as the man who looked far too much like him for his own comfort, who he knew was wearing his last name, who he created not out of bloodshed but of love, turned to walk to the truck at the end of the field.

“What’s your name?”

The man rose up a hand and flashed a smile at the “stranger” who’s picture had been hanging in his foyer for as long as time wished.

“Jasper Whitlock, sir.”

[fairyqueenofthedragons]

The Magic Begins

Fablekingdom chapter 2

As I'm following canon set up of chapters, it starts with set up still. I am trying to show a slightly different dynamic between the siblings, while keeping the spirit of it. There will be bigger changes later on, but obviously the beginning is hard to change majorly, especially just arriving lol.

(Find Chapter One with a server of “Fk ch 1)

Hope you enjoy the chapter :D

Come chat with me on discord: https://discord.gg/8Vc6w9JWxv

OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO

Kendra had been sitting in the car for hours.

She and Seth had done just about everything they could think of to handle the boredom, but she’d finished her two books, they’d played a dozen rounds of tic-tac-toe, and he’d moved onto trying to beat her at chopsticks (that game with your fingers). Seth had had a few comics, but he’d gone through them faster then she had her books. Even his handheld video game couldn’t hold his attention anymore.

“I thought you said that Grandpa Sorenson lived in Connecticut, not India,” Seth grumbled.

Mom sighed, having listened to Seth’s complaints for the last hour, “It won’t be much longer. Enjoy the scenery.”

She’d said that the last six times.

“It’s boring! I’m hungry, can we stop for food?”

Kendra was on Seth’s side here; the scenery was boring.

Mom pulled up the grocery bag full of snacks, “How about some Peanut butter and crackers instead?”

Seth shot Kendra a pained look but reached for the crackers regardless.

“Ooh, I want some Almond Roca,” Dad said without taking his eyes from the road.

He’s still managed to keep to his New Year’s resolution of keeping Almond Roca on hand at all times.

“Do you want anything Kendra?”

“No, I’m fine.”

Kendra turned her gaze outside as Seth munched on his snack. When was this drive going to be over? At least Grandfathers house can’t be as boring as this drive.

Honestly, Kendra wasn’t happy they were being sent off to stay with their grandparents just because of some cruise. She wished her family would just let them come with… or maybe just her, Seth might be too young (and too annoying).

They would be gone for seventeen days! Kendra couldn’t believe they’d just leave them like this.

They’re getting it for free, them and all the aunts and uncles on her mom’s side. They didn’t win a contest or anything to get it, they got the cruise because Kendra’s grandparents had asphyxiated.

Grandma and Grandpa Larsen had been visiting relatives in South Carolina. Unfortunately, the trailer they lived in had some gas leak and they’d all died in their sleep. The grandparents had specified a long time ago that when they died all their kids and spouses were to use an allocated sum of money to go on a Scandinavian cruise.

Grandchildren were not invited.

“We’re almost there kids!” Kendra’s dad said cheerfully.

“Yay,” Seth grumbled. “Then you guys can abandon us for your fancy cruise.”

“Won’t you get bored stuck on a boat for seventeen days?” Kendra asked hopefully.

Dad caught her eye in the rearview mirror. “The food is supposed to be incredible, top reviews. Snails, fish eggs, the works. It’s gonna be great.”

Mom wacked his arm.

“We’re not all that excited about the trip kids,” Mom said sadly. “I doubt your grandparents envisioned an accidental death when they made the request. The cruise is to honor their memory more than for fun.”

“What kind of death did they plan then?” Seth muttered.

Kendra couldn’t help but agree, who planned their death?

The ship stops in ports as you go,” Dad said, deliberately redirecting the conversation. “You get to disembark for part of the time.”

“Are you at least going to get us something?” Kendra asked. “If you’re just going to leave us at your parent’s house.”

“Of course we will dear,” Mom reassured. “We’ll get you some chocolates, maybe some books, maybe there will be cool jewelry!”

“I want a sword,” Seth said. “A sharp one.”

“I think it’s great for you kids that you get to stay with my parents,” Dad added. “I mean, they never invite anyone to stay with them. It’s definitely better than some cruise.”

Kendra shared a look with Seth, their parents were full of it.

“They’re hermits,” Seth argued. “We barely know them!”

“They’re my parents,” Dad said. “I survived, you’ll have fun.”

The car passed through a small town, only a few buildings lined the road, many seeming old a run down. There didn’t appear to be anything more interesting than a small library at the corner.

“It’s very exciting,” Dad continued. “Like I said, they never invite anyone. You’ll have a blast.”

Kendra tried hard not to roll her eyes. She knew for a fact that they hadn’t been invited. Kendra had overheard their mom when she approached Grandpa Sorenson about letting the kids stay with him at the funeral.

The funeral itself hadn’t been fun at all, it was creepy seeing her grandparents all dressed up fancy with lots of makeup. It didn’t look like them at all.

Those grandparents, the Larsen’s, they were the ones that they’d known. They’d come to lots of holidays and done many long visits with Kendra’s family. But Kendra couldn’t remember seeing the Sorenson’s much since Seth had started second grade.

Grandma and Grandpa Sorenson had inherited an estate in Connecticut around the time her parents were married. All the stories she’d heard were fantastical, filled with fairies and demons and witches. They were obviously fake, it made her think the place was something very boring.

Honestly, everyone was shocked when grandpa Sorenson had shown up at the funeral. It’d been more than eighteen months since either grandparent had visited anywhere.

He’d apologized that Grandma Ruth hadn’t been able to come, she’d fallen ill, but it really was the norm for only one to show up.

But at the end Kendra had overheard Mom talking to Grandpa Sorenson, cajoling him into watching her and Seth. She’d been heading to the bathroom but paused when she’d overheard them at the corner.

“Why can’t they stay with Marci?”

“Normally they would, but Marci is coming on the cruise.”

Kendra had risked a peek and seen Grandpa Sorenson standing across from her mom.

“Where are Marci’s kids going?”

“To her in-laws.”

“What about a baby-sitter?”

Grandpa had seemed almost pleading then, his expression tight.

“Two and a half weeks is a long time for a sitter. You’ve mentioned before something about having them over…”

“Yes, I do recall… But does it have to be late June? What about July?”

“The cruise is on a time frame. What’s the difference?”

He’d rubbed his face with a sigh.

“Things are extra busy then… I don’t know, Marla. I’m not that good with kids. Is there no where else they could go?”

“I’m sorry Stan,” Mom said, sounding on the verge of tears. “I know things are busy for you, and I don’t want to go on this cruise. You did so good with them when they were younger, I know you don’t see them often but… This cruise was important to my parents, so I want to go for them. If you can’t take care of the kids we can stay behind-“

“No,” Grandpa Sorenson interrupted with a sigh. “It’s fine. I’m sure we can find some place to lock them up.”

So, no, Grandpa Sorenson did not invite them.

Seth finished his crackers and pulled his game back out, flipping through the cartridges.

“Which game should I play?”

Kendra leaned over, “The fashion one.”

He rolled his eyes, “That one is just for character design.”

“Then make an elf.”

“I don’t want to!”

“You asked which you should do.”

“Nevermind, your suggestion is dumb.”

Seth ended up picking a fighting game and started it up.

Kendra got bored of watching quickly and turned to look out the windows. The trees were large and dark, little light slipping through the branches.

She jolted when they turned onto a gravel driveway.

“Look at that sign,” Seth said.

She followed his finger to see signs hanging on the side of the road.

Private Property

No Trespassing

Trespassers Will Be Persecuted

Please respect our privacy

“What are all these signs?” Kendra muttered.

“Oh, you know Grandpa Sorenson,” her dad said cheerfully. “Such a sense of humor.”

“I think they’re funny,” Seth declared. “Can we get some for our house?”

Kendra frowned at them as the car continued up the long driveway, no house anywhere in sight.

There were more signs as they went.

Beware of the Dog

We do not call 911

Beware of .12 Gauge

No Public Access at any Time

Owner Shoots

Kendra leaned back. This seems so… pleasant.

“I like that one,” Seth said pointing at the Owner Shoots sign.

Kendra shook her head as they finally reached the end of the driveway. Before them was a wrought-iron fence topped with fleurs-de-lis. Open in their path was a large double gate. She peered around but couldn’t see the end of the fence through the trees.

Even after passing through the gates there was still no sign of the house through the trees, until suddenly the trees cut off.

A large house came into view suddenly. It wasn’t quite a mansion, but was definitely larger than most houses Kendra had seen.

It was constructed out of dark wood and stone, old looking but solid and in good shape. The grounds around it were much more impressive though. There was a massive flower garden blooming in front of the house, with manicured hedges and a fish pond. It seemed to wrap around the side of the house too. Kendra wondered what flowers there were, and if there was a vegetable garden as well.

Further back Kendra could see a massive barn, at least five stories tall and topped with a large weather vane that she couldn’t quite make out but seemed shaped like an animal, but not a rooster.

“Oh, it’s lovely,” Mom said. “I wish we were all staying.”

Kendra blinked, “You’ve never been here?”

“No,” Mom said sadly. “Your father came here a few times before we were married.”

Dad nodded, “Yeah. There are some wild stories about this place, haha, I’ve told you a few of them.”

Seth yawned, “Yeah, like the evil witch in a shack.”

“Or the demon in the chapel.”

“Aren’t there trolls over one hill?”

Their dad laughed, “Yeah, my dad used to tell some wild stories. You should hear the ones Aunt Sophie would tell sometimes. She swears she met satyrs one time.”

The two shared an exasperated look.

“Anyways, you’ll have a blast. We never stayed long, but it was always entertaining. Worst comes to worst you can just hang out in the pool.”

Kendra rolled her eyes. Honestly, they were too old to believe all those fairy tales.

The car pulled to a stop just outside the garage as the front door open.

Grandpa Sorenson stepped out, followed by a tall, lanky man and a thin, older woman. Mom, Dad, Seth, and Kendra hopped out of the car.

The older woman was unfamiliar to Kendra, and so was the man. The woman had white hair streaked with black strands, and yet her face seemed ageless, her age impossible to place. Her skin was a tawny olive tone that appeared completely flawless, her black hair was pin-straight and framed her face.

The man had messy brown hair to go with matching brown eyes that studied them intently. He came over to the van, helping Dad open the back and begin removing suitcases.

“Just place the things inside,” Grandpa told Dad. “Dale will take them up to the bedroom.”

“Where’s Mom?” Dad asked looking around.

“She’s visiting your Aunt Edna.”

Dad looked surprised. “In Missouri?”

“Edna’s dying,” Grandpa said grimly.

Kendra had barely heard of Aunt Edna, and never met her, so she wasn’t that affected by it. Dad seemed upset thought.

She shifted awkwardly, studying the house to distract herself from their conversation.

The windows were cool, with bubbly glass. And there were bird nests under the eaves. She also noticed a lot of butterflies fluttering around.

Mom suddenly drew their attention and Seth and her scrambled to gather their things from the car and shove it all in their backpacks to bring in.

“I’ll grab the pillows if you grab the blankets?” Seth offered.

“Sure,” Kendra agreed, reaching for the blanket Seth had brought for napping on the car ride while he snagged her pillow.

Seth also snagged his ‘emergency kit’, a cereal box filled with odds and ends he thought would come in handy.

The two hurried after their parents, reaching them at the front door.

“Oh, there you are,” Mom said. “Got everything?”

“Yeah,” Seth huffed. “Except a ticket to go on the cruise.”

Mom sighed, ruffling Seth’s hair. “We’ll miss you too.”

He groaned, swiping at her hand as she turned to Kendra.

“Watch out for your brother, and both of you stay out of trouble, okay?”

Kendra nodded, “We’ll do our best.”

“So who’s this?” Dad was asking Grandpa.

“This is Lena, our housekeeper,” Grandpa said. “She helps around the house while Dale helps me tend to the grounds.”

“Nice to meet you,” Dad said.

“A pleasure,” Lena agreed with a soft accent. Kendra couldn’t quite place it, yet it reminded her of the ocean.

Lena opened the door, beckoning them inside.

“Oh, the home is beautiful,” Mom said. “I wish we had time for a tour.”

“Maybe when you get back,” Grandpa offered.

Kendra looked around. The house really was beautiful.

The glossy wood floors shone in the light and a low table in the entry hall held a beautifully painted ceramic vase with wilting flowers placed in it. There was a tall, brass coatrack off to one side beside a black bench with a high, carved back. It looked old and very interesting.

“Thank you again for letting the kids stay with you,” Dad said. “I don’t know what we would’ve done without you.”

Grandpa nodded, looking a bit awkward.

“It’s our pleasure.”

“I wish we could visit some,” Dad said. “But we’re on a really tight schedule.”

Grandpa pat his shoulder, “I understand, another time. Don’t let us keep you from your trip.”

“Thanks, Dad.”

Dad turned to Kendra and Seth, ruffling Seth’s hair.

“Have fun kids, we’ll be back before you know it.”

“Be good,” Mom said, hugging Kendra then Seth. “Do whatever Grandpa Sorenson tells you.”

Kendra sniffed, tears welling up. She swallowed hard and nodded, “Have a fun cruise.”

“Bring us back souvenirs,” Seth reminded.

Mom laughed, “The best ones.”

“We love you kids,” Dad said as he headed to the door.

Mom hugged them both one last time then went after him.

Kendra hurried after them, watching as they climbed into the SUV and start it up. Dad honked the horn as he pulled out, turning around and driving away. Kendra watched until the SUV vanished into the trees.

She tried not to think that her parents were probably relieved to be off without Seth and her. They were probably delighted for the vacation, not caring that they’d abandoned their two kids alone in a pretty, but creepy home with a grandparent they barely know.

Seth was poking around the entrance room, poking at one of the cabinets and picking up one of the intricate pieces of a decorative chess set.

Grandpa stood awkwardly, watching Seth and wincing when Seth put down a piece too hard.

“Leave the chess pieces alone,” Kendra told Seth. “They look expensive and breakable.”

“It’s fine,” Grandpa said, looking relieved when Seth put them down. He cleared his throat, “Shall I show you to your room?”

“Okay,” Seth said. “When’s lunch?”

Grandpa coughed, “It’s a bit past lunch but we can make you a snack to hold you till dinner.”

Seth nodded eagerly, “I’m starving.”

Kendra followed silently as Grandpa went up the stairs and down a carpeted hall to the foot of a narrow wooden staircase leading up to a white door.

“We don’t often have guests, especially children,” Grandpa explained. “I think you’ll be the most comfortable in the attic.”

Kendra was expecting something dark and musty, like the attic back home, but when he opened the door she saw it was actually very nice.

It was set up like a cheerful playroom. Spacious, clean, and bright, the long room had two beds at the far end, one wall covered in bookshelves and a couple of dressers, and the other held two wardrobes and some toy chests. There was a unicorn rocking horse sitting to the side, and a full dollhouse in one corner with a small piano in the other. Sitting beside of one of the dressers was a hen in a cage.

Seth went straight for the chicken. “Cool!” He poked a finger through the slender bars, trying to pet the soft looking feathers.

“Be careful, Seth,” Kendra warned. “Be gentle.”

“He’ll be fine,” Grandpa soothed. “Goldilocks is more a house pet than a barnyard hen. Your grandmother usually takes care of her, but since she’s gone I thought you kids might enjoy taking care of her for now. You’ll need to feed her, clean her cage, and collect her eggs.”

Seth looked delighted, “She lays eggs?”

“An egg or two a day if you keep her well fed,” Grandpa confirmed, motioning to a white plastic bucket full of kernels. “One scoop in the morning and in the evening should be good. I’ll show you how to change the lining of her cage in a few days. Make sure she has plenty of water and a tiny bowl of milk each morning.”

“Milk?”

He smiled mysteriously, “That’s the secret behind the eggs.”

“Can we take her out?” Seth asked, now stroking her feathers.

“Be gentle,” Grandpa said. “And put her back after.”

“Is it okay for us to play with the toys?” Kendra asked, studying the dollhouse. “Some of these look expensive.”

“Toys should be played with,” Grandpa said. “Just try to take care of them and that will be enough.”

“Awesome,” Seth said, going over to the piano and banging on the keys.

Kendra blinked, the notes sounded different than a piano. She couldn’t quite place what was off.

“While you stay here, this room is your space,” Grandpa said. “Within reason of course. I won’t pick up this space, nor bother you about it, as long as you treat the rest of the house with respect.”

“Alright,” Kendra agreed.

“Sounds good,” Seth nodded.

“I also have some unfortunate news. We’re in the height of tick season, have you heard of Lyme disease?”

Seth shook his head, but Kendra considered for a moment.

“I think so, but I can’t remember what it is.”

“It was originally discovered in the town of Lyme, Connecticut, not too far from here. You can catch it from tick bites, and during tick season the woods here are full of ticks.”

“What’s it do?” Seth asked.

“It starts out as a rash,” Grandpa said. “But it leads to arthritis, paralysis, and heart failure. And on top of that, ticks in general are bad to have. If you try to pull them off the heads detach, makes them hard to remove.”

“Gross,” Kendra muttered.

Grandpa nodded, “They’re very small and hard to see, at least until they fill up on blood, then they get as large as grapes.”

“Wow,” Seth said. “Can’t you just use bug spray?”

Grandpa nodded, “That can help, but isn’t a guarantee. The point is, you kids aren’t allowed to go into the woods. Stay on the lawn, play in the pool, explore the gardens, but stay away from the woods. I won’t be taking you to the hospital for Lyme disease.”

They both nodded.

“Good. As long as you follow that rule it’ll be fine. Break it and I’ll have to take away your outdoor privileges for your own safety.”

Seth winced, “Right, got it.”

“We understand,” Kendra assured him.

Grandpa nodded again, looking satisfied.

“One last thing,” he continued. “You’ll also need to stay out of the barn. There’s a lot of old tools and ladders and rusty pieces of farm equipment. I don’t want to risk you getting injured or getting tetanus.”

“Okay,” Seth agreed easily.

“Sounds reasonable,” Kendra said.

“Is there a TV?” Seth asked, poking at a canvas on an easel by one of the toy chests.

“No TV, or radio. We don’t get good reception out here, and it’s very expensive to run lines out.”

“When’s dinner?”

“In a few hours, Lena will be bringing up a snack for you soon. On that note, if you need anything, go to Lena. I’m very busy handling the upkeep of the property, so Lena will help with whatever you need.” He motioned to a purple cord hanging against the wall near one of the beds. “Tug the cord if you need her.”

“Alright, will we eat in one of the dining rooms?”

Grandpa nodded, “When I’m able to join you yes. On the days I’m too busy, like today, you can eat in here, in the kitchen, or anywhere else in the house. As long as you keep everything relatively clean you’re free to eat where you’re comfortable.”

“Wow,” said Seth. “Mom and Dad never let us eat in our rooms!”

Grandpa’s lips twitched, “Well, if it seems you can’t clean up after yourselves I may put a limit on it. But for now, you’re free to eat where you please.”

“Awesome,” Seth muttered.

Kendra’s smiled, that did sound nice.

“Now then, I need to go and complete my chores. I’ll likely not see you again till tomorrow.” He turned to leave but paused, pulling out a tiny key ring from his coat pocket. “Each of these keys fit something in this room. See if you can figure out what each unlocks.”

Kendra accepted the keyring curiously and Grandpa headed out, shutting the door gently behind him.

Seth had opened a toy chest now and was examining the contents. The toys were old-fashioned but in excellent condition. Soldiers, dolls, puzzles, stuffed animals, wooden blocks, some blocks shaped like logs, and others.

Kendra went to the window, a telescope put before it. She tried to peer through the eyepiece but couldn’t get it to focus right no matter how much she adjusted the knobs.

Pulling away she studied the window, realizing they were made of bubbly glass like the front of the house.

She unfastened the latch, pushing the window open. Even without the telescope she could see far into the forest. She moved the telescope closer and peered through it. After a moment of adjusted the knobs she could see even the leaves of the trees in clear detail.

“Oh, let me see,” Seth said, peering over her shoulder.

“Give me a bit, I just started looking.”

“But I wanna see.”

“Go play with the toys some,” Kendra huffed. “I’ll let you look after I’m done.”

“But sharing is caring,” Seth insisted.

“I said you could look, let me use it first though. I was using it already.”

Seth squinted, “What are you even looking at?”

“The trees.”

“Boring, let me see. I’ll look at something more interesting.”

Kendra rolled her eyes but stepped away, not wanting to deal with his whining.

“Fine but let me close the window. I don’t want bugs to come in.”

“Sure, whatever,” Seth studied the telescope as she closed the window and went off to study the dressers.

They were carved elegantly with fairies and unicorns and fiery birds.

She ran her fingers over the intricate patterns, she wished she had something like this at home.

She shook her head, going to look at the wardrobes, it reminded her of the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. She wondered if she stepped in would she find a mystical land on the other side.

“This stupid thing won’t even focus,” Seth complained.

Kendra smiled.

OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO OO

Thanks for reading! Don't forget to reblog and leave a review, they feed my soul.

What did you think of the room? What changes do you think their foreknowledge will bring? What things did you dislike from the original series that you'd like changed?

lmk if you’d like to be tagged.

[bebepac]

Ghost Girl

This is the 10th chapter of The Life of Riley.  To catch up on what’s been gong on, please click 

HERE

Riley Brooks and the Royal Family (via newscast) belong to Pixelberry.  Jason, Ren, and Jaiden Brooks are my own characters, along with Mrs. Raven, Tucker Adams and Mr. and Mrs Adams.  

We’re doing another age jump.  Riley starts this chapter as 7, but ends the chapter age 13.  Hence why this is a longer chapter,  most happens as she’s younger.  

Ok this one hits a little close to home for me, because there is a heavy bullying theme in this chapter. I was bullied a lot growing up.  I moved from the North (Long Island, NY)  to the South,  (North Carolina) so I was picked on for my accent being different from the southerners.  I wasn’t skinny so that was a picking point, and I was a nerdy, and  made really good grades, and on top of that I developed early and got my bra strap popped by a boy so hard one time, it broke. I even used a line that one of my bullies said to me here.  This was in grade school  and i won’t say my age, but I still remember it clear as day.  I asked him.  “Why do you hate me?”   His response was “Because you exist.”   This one was a tough one you guys.  

Word Count: 3325

Summary: Riley has show and tell at school, Riley is bullied by one of her classmates.  

Warnings:  Profanity, bullying, blood, broken nose, funeral of a character.  Oh and if you’re weirded out about the supernatural aspect of Jaiden being around I guess that’s worth a mention.  

Tagging: @queenjilian @dcbbw @loveellamae @bbrandy2002 @nomadics-stuff

@kimmiedoo5 @kingliam2019 @cordonianroyalty @lodberg @aestheticartwriting @glaimtruelovealways @custaroonie @janezillow  @annekebbphotography @queencordonia @cordonia-gothqueen @atha68 @lovemychoices @my0123456789universe @indiacater @losingbraincellseveryday @yukinagato2012 @furiousherringoperatortoad @marietrinmimi @sevenfuckslefttogive @queen-arabella-of-cordonia @flutistbyday2020 @mrsdrakewalkerblog @xpandabeardontcarex @acanthisorbis @axwalker @texaskitten30​

“RIIIIIIIIIIIIIIILLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLEEEEEEEEEEYYYYYYYYY!!!!” The woman’s voice screamed.

Then Riley heard her own voice in a way that she’d never heard it before.  Her voice was heavy, incredibly full of panic and pain.  Her heart raced in her chest.  

“Poor kid…her life will never be the same, if she ever wakes up..” She heard him say.  She felt a pin prick to her arm, and all the voices faded away.

Riley always knew she was different from her parents.  From an early age, she had always noticed some insensitive looks when she called her Mom “Mommy or her Dad, Daddy,” out in public.  It shouldn’t have been that way… but it was.  

Riley had light brown skin when her parents well…. didn’t.  Riley’s sweet smile would brighten the darkest night.  Ren had braided her hair tight round the crown of her head, and had adorable  ringlet curls falling  down her back.  Even though Ren didn’t know much about Riley’s hair type at first, her mom made sure she was an expert on it, as Riley aged.  

Riley hopped off the bus, and leaped into the arms of her mother.

“My Jumping Jelly Bean!” Ren exclaimed, pulling Riley close, kissing her on both cheeks blowing raspberries. Riley’s high pitched giggle was so infectious her mother found herself chuckling too. She put her back down and took her hand.  Riley walked with her mom swinging their arms.  

Riley was at the breakfast nook working on homework when her dad walked in wearing his police officer  uniform.  Ren  busied herself chopping vegetables next to her.

“Is that for me?!?!?!?!” Riley exclaimed happily as she saw her dad standing in the doorway, with a bouquet of flowers in one hand, and a plush teddy bear in the other.  She jumped up and down finding it hard to contain her excitement.  

“It sure is!!!!”  He instead held out the bouquet of flowers to Riley.  “Here you go Jelly Bean.”

Ren giggled.  “For the most beautiful princess in the whole wide world.”

Disappointment filled in Riley’s eyes, as she glanced at the teddy bear in her dad’s right hand.

“Jelly Bean,” he had a huge smile on his face, as he put the plush toy on the counter, “One day when you think you are all grown up, you will start liking boys.”

Riley made an ugly face, and said “Ewwwwwwwwww!” Sticking out her tongue.  Her father doubled over in laughter.   “Please stay exactly like this forever.  But if a boy you like one day does not bring you flowers for no reason, he doesn't deserve your heart.  You are my beautiful princess Riley, but the one who captures your heart, he should be a King, to make you his Queen.  You deserve nothing less than that, my darling beautiful girl.”

Her father handed her the stuffed animal that she quickly took and hugged it tightly to her chest.  Before he gave the flowers to Ren though, he gently pulled out one of the roses from the bouquet and handed it to her.

Every time from that day on, if Riley’s dad brought her mom flowers, Riley got flowers as well.   Ren decided to get her a vase to keep all the perfectly dried flowers in.  

Riley’s mom helped her put on her pajamas and climb into bed.  

“Time to dream,” she said softly tucking her in and giving her eskimo kisses.  Riley giggled.

“We love you to the moon and back again, Jelly Bean.”  Jason gently stroked her hair and kissed her forehead.  

Riley snuggled down into the covers feeling loved and fell quickly asleep.

Riley had trouble making friends.  Jason never understood why.  Riley was so sweet and kind and playful.  He would find out though that next day.  

The next morning Jason had to get Riley ready for school.  He waited at the bus stop holding Riley’s hand until the bus came.  Jason noticed when Riley got on the bus, instead of sitting with someone she grabbed a seat by herself.  

Riley opened her back pack and quickly got her book  out to read, so no one would bother her, keeping to herself.

“Riley!”  

“What?”  She remarked looking at him.  She wasn’t even on the bus a minute when he started bothering her.  Tucker Adams liked to bother her every day.  “Who was that you were with?”

“My Dad.”  Riley commented not looking up from her book.

“He is  not.”  

“He is so.”

“Then the lady you’re usually with isn’t your Mom.”

“She is too!!”  Riley exclaimed slamming her book down.  

“Riley you’re Black.”

“So what?”  

You can’t be you and have White parents..  Riley’s ADOPTED!”

“I AM NOT!!!”  She didn’t know what it meant, but he made it sound like it was a bad thing. As everyone was now laughing at her.

“You’re so stupid Riley.  You don’t even know what it means.  Being adopted means your real parents didn’t want you, and the people you were living with couldn’t have their own kids, so they were nice enough to keep you instead.”

“It doesn’t matter, my parents love me.” She screamed at them, turning towards the window.  She wouldn’t let them see her cry.  She quickly wiped her tears away.

Every day was like this on the bus.  Every day Jaiden had to watch Riley cry, and get bullied by those idiots.  

Jaiden scooted a little closer to her.  Too close because Riley jumped.  Riley felt an ice cold wave hit her shoulder, and the only time she had ever felt that… she gasped.  

She looked right at him but couldn’t see him.  “Is that you Jaiden?” she whispered.

“Who are you talking to? There’s no one sitting with you Riley.  You’re so weird.”  

“Maybe she’s talking to an imaginary friend.”

“She doesn’t have any friends.  Even her imaginary ones won’t talk to her.”

"Why do you hate me?" Riley asked wondering what she did wrong to have to put up with this every day.

"Because you exist." Tucker laughed and all the others laughed with him.

“Just leave me alone.” Riley’s voice broke as she said it, her eyes filling with tears.  

As soon as the bus pulled to a stop at school,  Riley was the first one off the bus, running to her class.  

He would be there too. But at least she could be alone for a few minutes before he got there.  

Riley liked Miss Raven’s class.   Especially on Tuesdays they had Show and Tell.  Riley pulled out the framed sonogram pictures of Jaiden.

When Miss Raven asked for volunteers on who wanted to go first, Riley’s hand shot up into the air.  

“Riley you can go first.”  

Riley held up the picture so everyone could see.

“This is my brother Jaiden.  He doesn’t look like this anymore.  That’s how he looked when he was a baby.  He’s older than me."

“I didn’t know you had an older brother Riley. What grade is he in?”

She shook her head.  "This date is the date he went back to Heaven.  But then he came back!  We used to talk all the time.  He was my friend.  Then he had to go away again.  But I think he’s back!"

“Riley’s brother is a ghost!”

“Tucker! Don’t be mean!”  Miss Raven pointed to Tucker.

“Riley storytime is on Fridays.”  

“But it’s not a story, it's true Miss Raven it is.”

“You can take your seat now Riley.”  

Riley walked back to her desk, as she passed by Tucker, he said “GHOST GIRL!!!”

The whole class laughed at her.  

Her next two classes she sat there and didn’t say a word.  

Recess was one of her favorite things.  She could play on most of the equipment by herself and keep herself busy.  Riley’s favorite thing was the monkey bars.  Since she worked out with her Dad a lot Riley was strong and could pull herself up easy, and liked doing pullups on  the monkey bars.  She was next in line, and just when she was about to grab the equipment, she was pushed out of the way.

Riley fell to the ground. 

“Hey!  It was my turn.”  Riley got up off the ground and dusted off her clothes.

“Sorry I didn’t see you Ghost Girl.”   Tucker laughed at her.

“That’s not funny.”  

“What are you going to do about it, Ghost Girl?”

Riley balled up her fists.  Tears filled her eyes.  Her breathing quickened.

“Are you going to cry Ghost Girl?”  

Other people started saying it too.    They were laughing at her yet again.

As he started stepping close to her, it looked like he was tripped, and he fell flat in front of her.  She took a few steps back so he wouldn’t fall on her.  

Riley smiled. It had to be Jaiden. It had to be.

He jumped up looking around.  “What was that?”  Did your stupid big Ghost Brother just trip me, Ghost Girl?”  

"Hell yeah I did!"  Jaiden exclaimed. He was surprised it happened. But how did I do it? He wondered.  

“Don't push me down again, and he's not stupid!!!!!”  Riley screamed, taking her boxing stance her Dad had taught her and punched Tucker smack in his face, in the nose and he hit the ground, blood gushing everywhere.

"Ow!!! Riley you freak!”

The kids on the playground looked shocked at Riley.

Jaiden looked at Riley impressed.  “That’s it, defend yourself little sister.”

Riley wound up in the principal’s office.  

Jason showed up a little bit later along with Tucker’s Mother and Father.    Before he met with the parents he wanted to speak to Riley alone first.  

When she walked in the room, he knew something was wrong with her.  

“What’s wrong Jelly Bean?”  

Riley burst into tears.  “He picks on me every day. He calls me names.  Stupid and Adopted,  and Ghost Girl.  And he pushed me, So I hit him."  

The only words that stuck out in Riley’s rant was that he pushed her, adopted could wait until they were home.  They never told her,  but they were going to eventually talk about it.  

“Wait, he put his hands on you?”  

Riley nodded.  “He pushed me down.  I fell on the ground.”

“Riley how did he touch you?”  

She demonstrated how he pushed her down.

Jason was almost seized in anger.  

He was ready to meet with POS parents now.

"Sorry my wife could not be here."

“We’re going to send you his medical bills.”  

“Nope, not going to pay them.  Self defense for your piece of crap son pushing my daughter to the ground.”

“Piece of crap son?”  Mrs Adams remarked.

“Yes, piece of crap son.  What kind of example are you setting for your son Mr. Adams, that he thinks it’s perfectly okay to put his hands on a girl?”

“Are you accusing me of something Brooks?”

“If the shoe fits.  I’m glad she knocked the shit out of him.  You people here have been sitting idly by and letting her get bullied by him for months.  Finally my child has the courage to stand up for herself, and you come down on the person getting terrorized?"

"Mr. Brooks!"

"You're lucky we don't press charges on your son. I think it's ridiculous, Riley is getting suspended for 5 days for defending herself, which i taught her to do, and he gets a slap on the wrist."

"Three days suspension is not a slap on the wrist Mr. Brooks. Riley drew blood."

"You think the only pain is physical pain?  My child burst into tears the moment I saw her.  I'm done here."

He walked out of the office. Slamming the door behind him. He looked at Tucker Adams sitting on one side of the waiting room chairs, Riley was on the opposite side.   He walks up to him. "You put your hands on my daughter or bother her again, I will lock you up under the jail, and I'm a police officer, so I can do it."

Tucker’s eyes widened,  "Yes sir!"

Jason had never been happier to be wearing his police uniform. He glanced at Riley winking. Riley had a huge smile on her face. He held out his hand.

"Let's go Jelly Bean."

Riley took her dad's hand walking away with him.

Jason was driving his police cruiser.  He didn't want to put her in back so he put her in the passenger seat. "I thought I would be heading back to work. Now we have to go back to switch cars. It's okay though."

"Are you mad at me Daddy?"

He looked at Riley, and her lower lip was trembling.

"No Jelly Bean, I'm not.  I will never be mad at you for defending yourself when someone puts their hands on you.   No one should ever touch you without you telling them it is okay to. But you should have told us he was bothering you when it started."

"I thought he would just leave me alone."

"Next time come to us."

Riley nodded.

"After we drop by the station,  how about we stop for ice cream on the way home. Get some mint chocolate chip? Your favorite?"

"Before eating lunch?" Riley was flabbergasted.  

"Don't tell mommy."

Jason drew a zipper across his lips, locked it, and threw away the key.  He started mumbling at Riley.

She giggled at him. He pointed to her lips. Riley did the same motions he had, and they spent the next 10 minutes mumbling at each other.

That afternoon Ren and Jason sat down with her and explained about her adoption. They showed her the hospital wrist band.  

"Why doesn't it say my name?"

"Because when your real  mom and dad brought you in they hadn't named you yet.  When they don't know the names of babies in the hospital they name them  Baby Girl Doe, or Baby Boy Doe."

"But mine says Baby Girl Doe 2?"

"That means there was another baby girl that didn't have a name either I guess. We never thought about it."

"Even though you didn't grow in Mommy's tummy, you grew in our hearts. We are still your parents."

"I know you love me." Ren and Jason hugged Riley tightly.

**************************************************************************************

"That is just so sad,"  Ren commented watching the screen.  Riley walked over to the television as well.

"What is it mama?"

"The funeral for the Queen of Cordonia is today."

Riley sat next to her mom listening to the newscast.   "Cordonian flags fly at half-staff today as a country mourns the death of their beloved Queen Eleanor. We go earlier taped footage of the funeral procession."

Her casket was covered with brilliant beautiful flowers. Trailing behind the casket a man and two boys.  It was King Constantine to his right Crown Prince Leo, and Prince Liam.  Following them looked like a security detail. As the procession stopped for a second the camera panned to their faces. The last face they rested on was Prince Liam's. He was trying his hardest to look stoic during this sad event, but his eyes told the story of his hurt.

Tears pooled in his sky blue eyes. Riley burst into tears looking at him. "He looks so sad mama." Ren hugged her but Riley couldn't pull herself away from staring at Prince Liam's face.  He closed his eyes and tears fell in rivers down his face, causing Riley to cry harder.  “It’s like i can feel his sad and it hurts.” 

"Calm down Jelly Bean... I'm sure he is sad. He lost his mom. She wiped Riley's eyes. But he'll be fine. He has his Daddy, and his big brother to be there for him."

“Jason…. Maybe we should take Riley to see a professional.  She still believes that Jaiden is here.  She doesn’t have any friends, and she just burst into tears watching a little boy halfway across the world on television that she doesn’t even know, because he looked sad to her.”

“Riley is fine,  she doesn’t need a counselor.  There’s nothing wrong with being a loner.  Let me tuck her in tonight, I’ll talk to her. She’s had a very emotional day.   But no counselors Ren, she doesn’t need one.”

That night Jason tucked Riley in, he wanted to because he had also received a call from Miss Raven about show and tell.

"Miss Raven told me about Show and Tell Riley, about Jaiden."

"Daddy he's back. I know he is!"

"Can you see him?"

"No, but I can feel him, and he tripped Tucker after he pushed me. It had to be him."

Jason smiled.  "He's protecting you. Maybe he's your guardian angel Riley."

"That would be cool!"

"Riley, Mrs. Raven told me something else. She says you don't have any friends."

"I don't because I don't need them. Everyone thinks I'm weird anyway. And when I tell them about Jaiden, they leave. A real friend believes.  You're my only friend Daddy."

Jason's eyes teared up. "I believe you Jelly Bean."

"I know."

Riley liked activities that she could do alone. So over the years  that's what Jason got her involved in. She still liked to work out with him, and he had introduced her to some new fighting styles. She seemed to really pick up the bo staff which he liked too.  They practiced in the lawn in their back yard a lot. 

They tried horseback riding but he could tell Riley didn't really enjoy it. Riley didn't seem to mind track as long as they were individual activities.  Riley liked to compete with herself .  And then there was music. Riley had this innate ability to sing and play music. So much so that Jason took her to a Music and arts store for her to pick out an instrument, that he would get her lessons.

Riley tinkered along the aisles touching the instruments.  She stopped in front of a guitar.  She put the band over her shoulder.  The clerk ran over to her. "You're not going to be able to play that one."

"Why not?"

"You're a southpaw right?"

Riley nodded.

"Well that makes you’re special like me, and there are left handed and right handed guitars.  Here's how you tell which guitars you can play. Hold the guitar up facing you like this. Now you try."

Riley imitated how he held the guitar.

"Now look at your strings. The thickest string will be on the right or the left.  If it is on the left, that guitar is made for a right handed person. If it is on the right it's for a left handed person. Which kind is this….uh…"

"Riley, her name is Riley."

"Riley, she's already got a Rockstar name. Okay Rockin’ Riley, which kind of guitar is this?"

"It's a right handed guitar.”

"Give me some skin, half pint!" Riley looked at him confused.

“High five?”  Riley jumped to high five the clerk.

"We have a couple of leftys over here but they're more expensive.  Most people are right handed."

"Go pick one Riley," Jason nudged her.  

"Pick it up, try it out, you don't pick the guitar,  it picks you."

Riley's eyes were drawn to a pink fender acoustic guitar.

"Ahhhh, so the pink lady has caught your eye. Try her out."

He placed Riley’s  hands on the strings.

"Watch my hands Riley and move them just like mine.”

He picked up another guitar and strummed the chord.

Riley mimicked his hand motion and produced a nearly flawless chord.

Jason flipped the price tag and winced.

The clerk noticed, and called out, "It's a custom job that was never picked up."

"But is there really a high demand for left handed hot pink acoustic guitars right now? She's also gonna need a teacher. We could pay for that steady revenue stream."

"Half price and lessons for 6 months?"

"Yeah I could swing it."

"Solid!!”

Are we in a timewarp?  Jason thought to himself.  It didn’t matter.  Riley was beaming, and happy and that’s all that ever mattered to Jason.  He was dad of the year and Riley’s smile proved it.  

By the time Riley was 13 she was playing guitar on her own, composing her own songs she had written in a small notebook. She was still running track, individual events only, and working out with Jason daily, and Riley was super strong.

Jason knew it was only a matter of time before boys invaded the mix, and finally one did. Donovan Jacobs.

[wutbju]

Pastor Stuart B. Latimer, age 84, of Taylors, SC, went to his heavenly home on Thursday, September 7, 2023.

Stuart was born to George and Florence Latimer in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. He was active in Youth for Christ in Hamilton during his teenage years. He graduated Valedictorian from Saltfleet High School and decided to attend Bob Jones University. Stuart met his wife Charlotte Polk from Frostproof, FL at Bob Jones, and they were married in 1962. He went on to receive his Master in Biblical Studies and completed post-master’s studies at BJU while teaching at the university.

Stuart became a USA citizen in 1971. He was ordained to the gospel ministry in 1972 and helped found Peoples Bible Church in Greenville, where he pastored for 22 years and had significant ministries to Furman and Clemson students. Stuart and Charlotte hosted thousands of college students in their home for meals and discussions throughout their ministry. Stuart was a popular speaker at family conferences, youth retreats, college retreats, and pastoral conferences.

Stuart lost his knee to a shotgun blast from a robber on a mission trip to Trinidad in 1994, but one of his former Furman students was able to save his leg. For the rest of his life, he was known for his walking stick with a carved turtle at the top which he called a “great conversation starter” (as though he needed one of those!). He joined the Associate Reformed Presbyterian denomination where he pastored Devenger Road Presbyterian Church for 15 years. After retiring, he continued to preach at multiple churches in South Carolina and Georgia, including regular preaching at Living Hope Presbyterian Church in Greer, SC. During the last year of his life, Stuart and Charlotte were encouraged by the television ministry of First Presbyterian Church, Greenville and by the in-home ministry of the pastoral staff.

He was an honorary cheerleader at Shannon Forest Christian School in the 1980s where his children attended, and he was known for the bellowing cry “Go Shannon Forest!” He was a huge Clemson fan and proudly wore a bright orange jacket wherever he roamed. His love for his children’s school and university is only surpassed by his love for their children. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, talking to them, joking with them, grilling them, and other assorted adventures with Papa. Stuart and Charlotte loved traveling together during their retirement years, including two trips driving to Alaska, all the way to the Artic Circle.

Throughout his life, Stuart wrote “Letters of Encouragement” (and later emails) to waiters, store clerks, baristas, friends, visitors, relatives, strangers on the street—anyone he had the opportunity to meet, even briefly. God gave him the gift of encouragement and a warm smile which he used to influence many lives. He believed the Bible is God’s love letter to us and wanted everyone to know that they were “worth more than the whole world put together.”

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Charlotte; his daughter, Michelle, her husband Jay Case, their children Elena and Alexander; his son, Stuart Jr., his children, Grace Anne (Thomas) Henley, William, and Lewis; and his sister, Marion, her husband Dave Pyke, and their children and grandchildren. Stuart was a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather—he will be impossible to replace.

Services for Stuart will be held Thursday, September 14, 2023. Visitation at 12:00 pm followed by a Funeral Service at 1:30 pm at First Presbyterian Church, 200 W. Washington St., Greenville, SC.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Foothills 390 Keowee School Rd. Seneca, SC, 29672 or to Samaritan’s Purse.

[hbhughes]

Jonathan Lacey Whipple

Jonathan Lacey Whipple, 37, son of Karen and the late John Whipple, passed peacefully at his home in St. Petersburg, Florida on March 16, 2023. He was born on April 1, 1985 in Leesburg, VA. Formerly a resident of Swoyersville and a 2003 graduate of Wyoming Valley West High School, Jon had an inquisitive mind and developed many passions in life. From a young age he nurtured a love of sciences, developing a keen interest in astronomy and atmospheric weather phenomenon, and a profound respect for history. Following the path of his interest in the past, Jon became an enthusiastic member of the Civil Air Patrol and developed an avid interest in World War II history and memorabilia. One of his favorite pastimes was listening to stories of the war from his grandfathers and a neighbor who served in the Army in Korea.

However, his first true love was music. Jon was known to most for his passionate exploration of all things relating to music. He loved all forms and styles from Jazz to Ska, Classical to Motown, Oldies to Punk, and introduced everyone who knew him to a style they would have never experienced without him. He was one of those rare individuals who could pick up any instrument and, in a short time, be able to play them; and play them he did – saxophone, baritone saxophone, trombone, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano, and organ. As he became proficient in instruments, he also branched out into composing and audio engineering, a pastime that remained a constant in his life.

After graduation, Jon became interested in the culinary arts. As with his other interests, he gave it his all. He worked in several local restaurants as a sous chef, honing his skills, but when the opportunity arose, he moved to Florida to attend the International Academy of Design and Technology which he graduated from in 2011 with a degree in Music Production. He refurbished a 1985 Volkswagen “hippie van,” and set off to establish his new life in the south with his constant companion of 17-years, Nola, a Carolina dog. He spent his recent years traveling and hiking with Nola and friends sharing his dedication and passion with a new community.

Although his time with us was not long enough, Jon’s greatest legacy lies in the way he made people feel. He was a man who loved to learn, and found joy in sharing that knowledge with others, and people often found themselves better off for having known him. His friendships were legendary, with many remaining rock-solid for over 25 years. His big heart made him the most fun person to be with in any room and he will be missed by all those friends and family who were lucky enough to have known him.

Jon loved many people in his life and will be sorely missed by all: his mother Karen, sisters Samantha Whipple and Genel Whipple Depuysselier, her husband Pete and children Dillion, Denise, Ryan, Mary, and Zack; partner Erin Peterson; daughter Chrystine Locascio, and son Julian Whipple. He is wished a peaceful rest by his aunts, uncles, and cousins: Tom and Pauline Whipple; Sue and Ken Hopkins, Josh and Kerie Hopkins and their children Dean and Eliza; Sarah Hopkins; Alan Shiplett and his son Alan Shiplett Jr; Bruce Shiplett; Tim and Tracey Shiplett and their children Emily, Lauren, and Matthew; Jennifer and Eric Murphy and their children Mia and Collin, Jake Honoosic. Jon now joins his father John Whipple, paternal grandparents Lester and Genevieve Whipple, maternal grandparents Herman and Joyce Shiplett, Uncle Steve Shiplett, and his beloved Nola. Rest in Peace, gentle soul – your journey is complete.

Family and friends are invited on Saturday, April 15th from 12:30 to 2 PM at Church of Christ Uniting, 190 S. Sprague Ave., Kingston, PA 18704. Memorial service will start at 2 PM, with Rev. Jane Pykus, officiating. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Hugh B. Hughes & Son, Inc. Funeral Home, Forty Fort.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SavetheMusic.org, SavingCarolinaDogs.com, RailstoTrails.org, or a charity of your choice.

[sambergscott]

i'll be with you wherever you are

i actually managed to finish a fic!!! suck it writer’s block!!!! 

also thank u to emma for letting me use baby maya, love u!!! 💖💝💗💕💘💓💞

It’s been a long week without him. There’s been lots of tears (from both mama and baby), sleepless nights and pointing up at the sky everytime an airplane passes over the city, asking if it’s dada coming home. Thank God for FaceTime, but even regular FaceTime calls do not suffice when all the two year old wants is to cuddle her daddy.

She doesn’t know how single or separated parents cope.

It’s killing Jake too, she knows from their private FaceTime calls after she’s finally managed to get Maya down to sleep. This is the longest he’s ever been away from their daughter -- and the longest he’s been away from Amy since he was stuck in that Safe House with Kevin -- and it sucks. He’s in California for a family funeral with Karen and he would’ve flown back by now if he didn’t have to stay to support his emotional, grieving mother.

“I feel like a crappy wife because I’m not there with you,” she confesses during one of their calls, tears threatening to spill over for the hundredth time since she had to make the difficult decision to stay at home. She’s almost 34 weeks pregnant with their second and it was touch-and-go whether the airline would let her fly across the country. They concluded that it would be safer for her to just stay at home with Maya. It’s not like funerals are not the best place for two year olds either, but still. She feels guilty as hell.

“Ames,” his voice softens, “we talked about this. It’s not your fault. You’re pregnant. You couldn’t get here.”

“But your aunt died. I could’ve bribed the airline, got special permission from the doctor, done something --.”

“You sent flowers and have called and texted constantly to make sure I’m OK. You’ve done plenty, babe. You have nothing to feel guilty about. Besides,” he says, “if it’s anyone’s fault, it’s mine for knocking you up.”

Amy rolls her eyes. “Way to take the romance out of it, Peralta.”

“I put the Whomping Willow in your Chamber of Secrets?”

“Worse.”

“Fine, we created a new, beautiful life through our love making.”

“You’ve been spending too much time with Charles,” she responds sarcastically. Although she is in complete agreement that their next child will be beautiful (just like their big sister), she disputes his original point that he was the one to get her pregnant. They both wanted another one. The re-appearance of Four Drink Amy after he ordered Kamikaze shots may have just extradited the process.

A familiar cry coming through the baby monitor cuts their conversation short.

“I’ll be home in two days,” he reminds her.

“Two days, seven hours and eleven minutes. Not that I’m counting or anything,” she adds, her cheeks burning.

“You’re seriously the best wife ever. Love you.”

“Love you too,” she whispers. She has just enough time to send Karen her best wishes and lower the phone to her belly so he can say goodnight to Bump before Maya’s cries get even louder and she really has to go.

(btw, he texts her as she soothes their baby girl, my dad -- a legit crappy spouse -- hasn’t even texted my mom once. me and maya and baby #2 are so lucky to have you. 💖💝💗💕💘💓💞)

(She’s so touched that she doesn’t even correct his grammar).

The following two days, seven hours and eleven minutes feel like a lifetime. In reality, it’s nothing compared to his stints in Florida and South Carolina where she didn’t know if she’d ever see him again, but it’s long enough. She lets out an audible sigh of relief when she gets the text that they’ve landed and are through security.

“Dada’s nearly home,” she updates a cranky Maya in the backseat of their Accord, sending Jake a quick description of where they’re parked. Motherhood has really honed her multi-tasking capabilities. “Are you excited about seeing dada?”

“Dada?” She looks around hopefully for him. Her face crumples when she realises he’s still MIA. To Amy, “Where dada?”

“He’s coming, baby. He’s coming.”

She turns up the Disney playlist they’d been listening to on the drive to the airport (it’s basically all they listen to these days), effectively distracting her for a couple of minutes.

She’s so busy singing to Moana that she doesn’t notice Jake approach until he taps at her window.

“DADA!” She squeals, desperately trying to reach for him through the glass.

He laughs, opening the door, expertly undoing her safety harnesses and pulling her into his arms as quick as he can. “I’ve missed you too, Maya-Moo,” he says, grinning at Amy like he did the first time he said it back when she was one month old and proclaimed that he was basically Shakespeare. Two years in, he’s still saying it constantly. Amy would find it annoying if it wasn’t so damn cute.

She climbs out the car (a task that is becoming increasingly difficult as her baby grows from an apple to an eggplant to a butternut squash) and hugs Karen, who can’t help but notice Amy’s longing glances in Jake’s direction.

“Go join them,” she instructs, nodding at the adorable father-daughter moment happening in the middle of the airport car park.

Karen lets her go and Amy takes a few steps towards them. She taps Jake on the shoulder. “Room for one more?”

“Always,” he responds, kissing her gently before wrapping his arms around his three favourite people. “I missed you guys so much. I’m never leaving ever again.”

“Please don’t,” she murmurs into his chest, closing her eyes and cherishing the warmth of his embrace.

She’s forced back to reality when a large SUV honks their horn at them to move out the empty parking space and holds her hand up in apology as she puts Maya back in her car seat while Jake loads the bags into the trunk.

“Let’s go home,” he declares once everyone is ready.

He drops his hand to her thigh and keeps it there the entire drive home, simultaneously making funny faces at Maya in the rearview mirror. The sound of the two year old’s laughter is the best soundtrack to any drive Amy’s ever had. She’s so glad he’s home.

[usacounselingcredit]

Boston Massachusetts Florist: Mrs. Essie B. Turner Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Boston Massachusetts Florist

Mrs. Essie B. Turner Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

by noreply@blogger.com (Loni Cardon) on Wednesday 08 February 2023 07:34 PM UTC-05

Read the obituary of Mrs. Essie B. Turner (1935 - 2023) from Magnolia, AR. Leave your condolences and send flowers to the family to show you care. Providence Providence RI Rhode Island February 07, 2023 at 10:23PM

Hammond Louisiana Ukiah California Dike Iowa Maryville Missouri Secretary Maryland Winchester Illinois Kinsey Alabama Edmundson Missouri Stevens Village Alaska Haymarket Virginia Newington Virginia Edwards Missouri https://unitedstatesvirtualmail.blogspot.com/2023/02/boston-massachusetts-florist-mrs-essie.html February 08, 2023 at 09:42PM Gruver Texas Glens Fork Kentucky Fork South Carolina Astoria Oregon Lac La Belle Wisconsin Pomfret Center Connecticut Nason Illinois Roan Mountain Tennessee https://coloradovirtualmail.blogspot.com/2023/02/boston-massachusetts-florist-mrs-essie.html February 09, 2023 at 01:41AM from https://youtu.be/GuUaaPaTlyY February 09, 2023 at 02:47AM

[oberlincollegelibraries]

Weekend Edition: True Crime

Attention Murderinos and true crime lovers: Today is your day! Below are some recent true crime publications. You can discover similar books by searching the following subjects in OBIS: 

false imprisonment

criminal investigation

serial murder

trials (murder)

kidnapping

Ghost of the Innocent Man: A True Story of Trial and Redemption by Benjamin Rachlin

"When the final gavel clapped in a rural southern courtroom in the summer of 1988, Willie J. Grimes, a gentle spirit with no record of violence, was shocked and devastated to be convicted of first-degree rape and sentenced to life imprisonment. Here is the story of this everyman and his extraordinary quarter-century-long journey to freedom, told in breathtaking and sympathetic detail, from the botched evidence and suspect testimony that led to his incarceration to the tireless efforts to prove his innocence and the identity of the true perpetrator. These were spearheaded by his relentless champion, Christine Mumma, a cofounder of North Carolina's Innocence Inquiry Commission. That commission-unprecedented at its inception in 2006-remains a model organization unlike any other in the country, and one now responsible for a growing number of exonerations."-- Provided by the publisher

The Real Lolita: The Kidnapping of Sally Horner and the Novel That Scandalized the World by Sarah Weinman

"The Real Lolita is a tour de force of literary detective work. Not only does it shed new light on the terrifying true saga that influenced Nabokov's masterpiece, it restores the forgotten victim to our consciousness." --David Grann, author of Killers of the Flower Moon. Vladimir Nabokov's Lolita is one of the most beloved and notorious novels of all time. And yet, very few of its readers know that the subject of the novel was inspired by a real-life case: the 1948 abduction of eleven-year-old Sally Horner. Weaving together suspenseful crime narrative, cultural and social history, and literary investigation, The Real Lolita tells Sally Horner's full story for the very first time. Drawing upon extensive investigations, legal documents, public records, and interviews with remaining relatives, Sarah Weinman uncovers how much Nabokov knew of the Sally Horner case and the efforts he took to disguise that knowledge during the process of writing and publishing Lolita. Sally Horner's story echoes the stories of countless girls and women who never had the chance to speak for themselves. By diving deeper in the publication history of Lolita and restoring Sally to her rightful place in the lore of the novel's creation, The Real Lolita casts a new light on the dark inspiration for a modern classic.

Furious Hours: Murder, Fraud, and the Last Trial of Harper Lee by Casey Cep

"The stunning story of an Alabama serial killer and the true-crime book that Harper Lee worked on obsessively in the years after To Kill a Mockingbird. Reverend Willie Maxwell was a rural preacher accused of murdering five of his family members for insurance money in the 1970s. With the help of a savvy lawyer, he escaped justice for years until a relative shot him dead at the funeral of his last victim. Despite hundreds of witnesses, Maxwell's murderer was acquitted -- thanks to the same attorney who had previously defended the Reverend. Sitting in the audience during the vigilante's trial was Harper Lee, who had traveled from New York City to her native Alabama with the idea of writing her own In Cold Blood, the true-crime classic she had helped her friend Truman Capote research seventeen years earlier. Lee spent a year in town reporting, and many more working on her own version of the case. Now Casey Cep brings this nearly inconceivable story to life, from the shocking murders to the courtroom drama to the racial politics of the Deep South. At the same time, she offers a deeply moving portrait of one of the country's most beloved writers and her struggle with fame, success, and the mystery of artistic creativity."-- Dust jacket

Death In the Air: The True Story of a Serial Killer, the Great London Smog, and the Strangling of a City by Kate Winkler Dawson

A real-life thriller in the vein of The Devil in the White City, Kate Winkler Dawson's debut Death in the Air is a gripping, historical narrative of a serial killer, an environmental disaster, and an iconic city struggling to regain its footing. London was still recovering from the devastation of World War II when another disaster hit: for five long days in December 1952, a killer smog held the city firmly in its grip and refused to let go. Day became night, mass transit ground to a halt, criminals roamed the streets, and some 12,000 people died from the poisonous air. But in the chaotic aftermath, another killer was stalking the streets, using the fog as a cloak for his crimes. All across London, women were going missing--poor women, forgotten women. Their disappearances caused little alarm, but each of them had one thing in common: they had the misfortune of meeting a quiet, unassuming man, John Reginald Christie, who invited them back to his decrepit Notting Hill flat during that dark winter. They never left. The eventual arrest of the "Beast of Rillington Place" caused a media frenzy: were there more bodies buried in the walls, under the floorboards, in the back garden of this house of horrors? Was it the fog that had caused Christie to suddenly snap? And what role had he played in the notorious double murder that had happened in that same apartment building not three years before--a murder for which another, possibly innocent, man was sent to the gallows? The Great Smog of 1952 remains the deadliest air pollution disaster in world history, and John Reginald Christie is still one of the most unfathomable serial killers of modern times. Journalist Kate Winkler Dawson braids these strands together into a taut, compulsively readable true crime thriller about a man who changed the fate of the death penalty in the UK, and an environmental catastrophe with implications that still echo today.

[full-imagination]

Kenneth Ray Wynn D.D.S

Kenneth Ray Wynn, D.D.S., of Moore, S.C., passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at the age of 85, at Spartanburg Medical Center. His beloved wife Ruth was by his side. Kenneth was born on October 9, 1934, to Guy Carlton Wynn and Essie Elizabeth Ray Wynn in Fletcher, N.C. He was one of six children. Kenneth attended elementary school in Fletcher, N.C., and graduated from Forest Lake Academy in Apopka, Fla. He majored in pre-dental studies at Southern Missionary College in Collegedale, Tenn., and in 1956, Kenneth traveled west to study dentistry in the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in Loma Linda, Calif. Kenneth met his sweetheart of 62 years, Montie “Ruth” Phillips, when she was studying to be a registered nurse at the Mountain Sanitarium and Hospital School of Nursing in Fletcher, N.C. They were married in 1958, and Ruth joined Kenneth in Loma Linda. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and graduated in 1960. Following graduation, the Wynns relocated to South Carolina, where Kenneth practiced dentistry in York, Woodruff, and Spartanburg, for 42 years, until he retired in 2002. Kenneth was loved by all his patients and well-respected by his professional colleagues. He served as secretary/treasurer and later president of the Southern Chapter of the National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists. Kenneth also was a member of several professional associations and societies, including the Spartanburg County Dental Society, Piedmont District Dental Society, South Carolina Dental Association, American Dental Association, Loma Linda University Alumni Association, Century Club of Loma Linda University, and the National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists. A member of the Spartanburg Seventh-day Adventist Church, Kenneth devoted much of his life to serving his community and church. He held a variety of church offices throughout his life. Kenneth was chair of the Finance Committee when the existing church was built on John B. White Sr. Blvd. He also was instrumental in co-founding the first Pathfinder youth club at the Spartanburg Church. Kenneth was known for his untiring love and devotion for his Savior, family, and his many friends who also remember him for his wit, wisdom, kindness, and ever-present smile. His loved ones trust he is resting in Jesus until He returns at the Second Coming to reunite families. Kenneth’s hobbies included writing poetry for many friends, family members, and special events. He loved photography, painting, sculpting, wood turning, wood carving, and baking cookies and bread. Survivors include his wife Ruth of Moore, S.C.; daughters, Deborah Wynn of Moore, Diane Thurber (Gary) of Lincoln, Neb., and Denise Hagerty of New Braunfels, Texas; grandchildren, Ryan Thurber (Baylie) of Colorado, Justin Thurber of Fla., J.D. Hagerty (Alicia) of Texas, and Sam Hagerty (Bianca) of Texas; great-grandchildren, Aviana Hagerty and Jack Hagerty of Texas; sister-in-law, Hilda Sheets of Georgia, brother-in-law, Dr. Edward Cranford of N.C., and many beloved nieces and nephews. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Irving Wynn, Wilton Wynn, and Lowell Wynn, and sisters, Elouise (Wynn) Smith and Eileen (Wynn) Cranford. A celebration of Kenneth’s life will be held at a later date. Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery in Greeneville, Tenn. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to the Pathfinder Youth Club of the Spartanburg Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1217 John B. White Sr. Blvd., Spartanburg, SC 29306. Floyd’s North Church Street Chapel from The JF Floyd Mortuary via Spartanburg Funeral

[the-record-obituaries]

March 4, 2020

Cora Ann Neikirk, 87

Cora Ann Neikirk, age 87, of North Wilkesboro, passed away Friday, February 28, 2020 at Wilkes Senior Village.

She was born October 10, 1932 in Wilkes County to Gordon Russell and Maggie Gray Godbee. Cora was retired from Tyson Foods. She loved to do crafts. Ms. Neikirk was preceded in death by her parents.

Surviving are her children, Al Davis and spouse Annie of Texas, Linda Norris and spouse Lee of Wilkesboro, Tony Davis and spouse Joyce of Moravian Falls, Debbie Smith and spouse Shep of Taylors, South Carolina; thirteen grandchildren; a number of great grandchildren; and a number of great great grandchildren.

Memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, March 5, 2020 at Miller Funeral Chapel with Eulogy by the family. Memorials may be made to the Dementia Society of America, PO Box 600, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18901. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com

 Mr. William Francis Dargin

Mr. William Francis Dargin, age 79 of Wilkesboro passed away Friday, February 28, 2020 at his home.

Memorial services with Military Honors by the Veterans of Foreign War Post # 1142 will be held 10:30 AM Saturday, July 4, 2020 at Reins-Sturdivant Chapel with Rev. Matt Miller officiating.  

Mr. Dargin was born February 21, 1941 in Newark, NJ to William J. and Margaret M. McClain Dargin.  He served as a Captain in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War.   He was a Mensa member, Friends of the Wilkes County Library and  he had a lifelong love of boats and sailing.  He was an avid gardener and mentor to many teens and young adults.  He had a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida in Gainesville.  

He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years; Laurie Volsdal Frachey-Dargin of the home, three daughters; Heather Bartram and husband Brian of Connecticut, Liv Perry and husband Ross of Vermont, Kimberly Crabb of Wilkesboro, two sons; Jared Dargin and Tammie Brown of Millers Creek and David Frachey and wife Deidre’ of Connecticut, four grandchildren; Jim and John Bartram of Connecticut, Eli Perry of Vermont, Nathaniel and Theodor Frachey of Connecticut, one sister; Margo O’Malley and husband Tim of Tennessee, dear friends; Shasta Phillips, Shelia Owens, Collee Riddle, companion canine; Macy, several nieces, nephews and several great nieces and nephews around the globe.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Wilkes, PO  Box 306, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 or Friends of the Wilkes County Library, 215 10th Street, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659.

Online condolences may be made at www.reinssturdivant.com

 Marvin Franklin Wagoner, 66

Marvin Franklin Wagoner, age 66, of North Wilkesboro, passed away Saturday, February 29, 2020 at his home. Mr. Wagoner was born November 12, 1953 in Wilkes County to Raymond Hobert and Bessie Viola Royal Wagoner. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Rufus Wagoner; and sisters, Margie Wagoner and Geneva Wagoner.

Surviving are his wife, Brenda Brown Wagoner; sons, Joe Wagoner and spouse Retha, Mickey Wagoner and spouse Amanda all of North Wilkesboro; grandchildren, Jeremiah Wagoner and spouse Kayla, Joe Joe Wagoner and spouse Megan, Tommy Wagoner, Sophia Wagoner, Dakota Wagoner, Gina Wagoner, Mickey Wagoner, Jr.; great grandchildren, Jazmine Wagoner, Abigail Wagoner, Aria Wagoner, Joseph Keith Wagoner; and brother, Spencer Wagoner and spouse Verna of North Wilkesboro.

Funeral service were be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 3, 2020 at Miller Funeral Chapel with Brother Billy Wagoner and Brother Michael Brown officiating. Burial followed in Mountlawn Memorial Park. The family received friends at Miller Funeral Service from 6:00 until 8:00 Monday night. Donations may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice, 688 North Bridge Street, Elkin, NC 28621. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com

 Gladys Wyatt Roberts, 70

Gladys Wyatt Roberts, age 70, of Millers Creek, passed away Friday, February 28, 2020 at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston Salem. Mrs. Roberts was born July 13, 1949 in Wilkes County to Rev. Archie and Julie Cleary Wyatt. Gladys was a member of New Light Baptist Church #2. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bud Roberts; great grandchild, Gauge Bumgarner; and sister, Clara Hart.

Surviving are her son, Allen Roberts and spouse Becky, Millers Creek; daughter, Pat Roberts and fiancé James Hart of Millers Creek; grandchildren, Julia Medford and spouse Michael of North Wilkesboro, Jason Bumgarner and spouse Celeita, Halie Smith all of Millers Creek; great grandchildren, Jayden Bumgarner and Kason Bumgarner both of Millers Creek; several aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.

 Funeral service were held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, 2020 at New Light Baptist Church #2 with Pastor Jim Belcher and Rev. Mike Church officiating. Burial followed in the Ambrose Roberts Cemetery on Mertie Road. The family received friends at New Light Baptist Church #2 from 1:00 until 2:00 on Tuesday, prior to the service. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com

  Mikey James Lovette, 37

Mikey James Lovette, age 37, of Wilkesboro, passed away Wednesday, February 25, 2020 at his home. Mikey was born August 14, 1982 in Wilkes County to Janet Vivian Johnson Lovette. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Cecil and Marie Lovette and Lawrence Johnson.

 Surviving are his mother, Janet Johnson Gregory of North Wilkesboro; sister, Malisa Lovette and fiancé, Oliver Bentley of Wilkesboro; aunt, Sandra McCrary and spouse Randy, Smithfield, Virginia; nephews, Tyler Carter, Trace Bentley, Bradley Vorsteg, Elijah Bentley,  and niece, Jaycee Carter.

 A Celebration of Life was held 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 1,, 2020 at Miller Funeral Service. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com

  Carlie Elvin Cleary, age 87

Carlie Elvin Cleary, age 87, of North Wilkesboro, passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at his home.

Carlie was born December 7, 1932 in Wilkes County to Raymond and Mozelle Ballard Cleary. He was a member of Second Baptist Church, a US Navy Veteran; was a Mason and a Shriner. Mr. Cleary was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Scott Bryan Cleary, Mark Elvin Cleary; sister, Bernice Cleary; brother, Arbury Cleary; and a step-daughter, Paula Sebastian.

 He is survived by his wife, Betty Porter Cleary; step son, David M. Wyatt and spouse Sandy of Millers Creek; step daughters, Tamara Wyatt of Wilkesboro, Nikole McGuire and spouse Chris of North Wilkesboro; brother, Larry Cleary of North Wilkesboro; sister, Barbara Jean Cooney and spouse Dan of Knoxville, Tennessee; eight step grandchildren; seven step great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; special little friends, Katie Owens and Bubba Prevette.

Graveside service with military honors by Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard Post 1142 and Masonic Rites were held 1:00 p.m. Thursday, February 27, 2020 at Mountlawn Memorial Park with Rev. Danny Dillard officiating. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Miller Funeral Service was in charge of the arrangements.

 Donald Ray Ferguson, 73

Mr. Donald Ray Ferguson, age 73 of Millers Creek passed away Sunday, March 1, 2020 at Wilkes Health and Rehabilitation.

Graveside service were held 2:00 PM Tuesday, March 3, 2020 at Shady Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Wilkesboro with Rev Gwyn Anderson officiating.  The family received friends from 12:30 until 1:30 PM prior to the service at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home.

Mr. Ferguson was born May 18,1946 in Wilkes County to Everette and Ruby Nichols Ferguson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Fred and Robert Ferguson.

He is survived by a sister, Betty Jean Ferguson Price and husband, Sydney of North Wilkesboro, a brother, Bill Ferguson of North Wilkesboro, a sister in-law, Helen Ferguson, of Millers Creek, and special friends, Wanda and Danny Byers of Millers Creek.

Online condolences may be made at www.reinssturdivant.com

 Mr. Gary Dale Colbert

Mr. Gary Dale Colbert age 55, of North Wilkesboro passed away February 25, 2020 at Forsyth Medical Center.

Funeral services were held at Reins Sturdivant Chapel Sunday, March 1, 2020 at 2:00 PM with Reverend Danny Bauguess officiating.  The family received friends from 12:00 until 1:45 prior to the service.  Burial was in Mountlawn Memorial Park.

Mr. Colbert was born January 1, 1965 to Fred Ray Colbert and Blanche Durham Colbert. He was self-employed as a Little Debbie Distributor.

Mr. Colbert was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Bruce Colbert.

He is survived by a son, Cory Garrett Colbert of the home, Gary’s fiancé, Samantha Hamby of the home, a sister, Cindy Colbert of Elkin, a brother Bobby Colbert and wife Kathy of Traphill. Beloved father figure to nieces Jenna Lyons, Gracie Colbert, nephew Traeson Colbert and Sammi Jo Walker, and also survived by niece, Kathy Jo McGee and nephew, Matthew Colbert.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Leukemia Society of America 5950 Fairview Road, Suite 250 Charlotte, NC  28210.

Online condolences may be made at www.reinssturdivant.com

 Wilhelmenia Wilby Greene Harris, 90

Mrs. Wilhelmenia Wilby Greene Harris, 90, of Millers Creek, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2020 at Maple Leaf Health Care in Statesville.  

Wilhelmenia was born on June 25, 1929 in Watauga County to Willie Lawrence Greene and Flora Belle Greene.

Wilhelmenia was a homemaker and life long member of Stony Fork Baptist Church.

Wilhelmenia is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Samuel LeRoy Harris; daughter, Cathy “Vicky” Harris; brothers, Claude Greene, Cecil Greene; sisters, Wilma Latham, Lorena Greene, Linda Kay Watson.  

Wilhelmenia is survived by her sons, Robert Alan Harris (Kelly Church) of Wilkesboro, Barry Harris (Rebecca) of Statesville; sister, Louella Copley of Charlotte; two grandchildren, Madison Harris of Statesville, McKenzie Harris of Millers Creek; two great grandchildren, Tanner and Shania of Statesville and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held Sunday, March 1, 2020 from 2:00-2:45 at Stony Fork Baptist Church. The funeral service was held on Sunday, March 1, 2020 at 3 p.m. at Stony Fork Baptist Church.   Burial followed in the church cemetery.

 Rev. Sherrill Welborn and Rev. Phillip Woodring  officiated.

Memorial donations may be given to Stony Fork Baptist Church Cemetery Fund P.O. Box 128 Deep Gap, NC 28618.

Condolences may be sent to: www.adamsfunerals.com

Adams Funeral Home of Wilkes has the honor of serving the Harris Family.

 Arvie Lou Hayes Hamby, 89

Mrs. Arvie Lou Hayes Hamby, age 89 of North Wilkesboro, passed away Thursday, February 27, 2020 at Wake Forest Baptist Health-Wilkes Medical Center.

Funeral services were held 2:00 PM, Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Reins Sturdivant Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Sherrill Wellborn and Rev. Dr. Susan Pillsbury officiating. Burial was in Arbor Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family received friends from 12:00 until 1:30 prior to the service at Reins Sturdivant Funeral Home.

Mrs. Hamby was born February 22, 1931 in Wilkes County to Washington Mumford Hayes and Essie Viola Holcomb Hayes. She was a member of Arbor Grove United Methodist Church. She was a former President of the Handicap Organization of Wilkes.

Mrs. Hamby was preceded in death by her parents, her husband; Max Aldean Hamby, a sister; Marybelle Hayes Johnson, a brother; William Jasper Hayes and two brother in laws; Walter George and Lester Johnson.

She is survived by four sons; Niki A Hamby and wife Kim of North Wilkesboro, Kimi M. Hamby and wife Kathy of Boomer, W. Kipi Hamby and wife Melissa of North Wilkesboro and Kini H. Hamby and wife Kimberly of North Wilkesboro, four grandchildren; Trevor Hamby, Kailee Davis and husband Tim, Jordan Cheek and husband Thomas and Ethan Hamby and Brenna, two great grandchildren; Sidney Cheek and Emersyn Davis, two sisters; Dicie Hayes George of Sparta, Dorothy “Dot” Hayes Foster and husband Curtis Foster of Purlear and special friends of the family; Perry and Claudia Parks.

Memorials may be made to Arbor Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery c/o Esther Eller 480 Shepherd River Road, Millers Creek, NC 28651 or Mtn. Valley Hospice 401 Technology Lane Suiter 200 Mt. Airy, NC 27030.

Online condolences may be made at www.reinssturdivant.com

 Virginia Fay Handy Watson, 65

Mrs. Virginia Fay Handy Watson, age 65 of Sparta passed away Monday, February 24, 2020 at Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital, Elkin NC.

Funeral services were held at 1:00 PM Friday, February 28, 2020 at Traphill Baptist Church with Pastor Mike Caldwell officiating. The family received friends from 6:00 until 8:00 PM on Thursday, February 27, 2020 at Reins Sturdivant Funeral Home.  Burial was in White Rock UMC Cemetery on Haystack Rd.

Mrs. Watson was born December 2, 1954 in Wilkes County to Mack Charlie Handy and Merle Blevins Handy. She started at Chatham’s in 1994 and worked there until 2016.  She retired after 22 years. She loved her grandchildren, was an avid church goer, made a mean gravy and biscuit, liked canning, cooking, and planning family get togethers.

In addition her parents, he was preceded in death by her husband; Tony Clinard Watson; one sister Ester Mae Handy and three brothers Charlie, Billy, and Bobby Handy.

She is survived by her daughter; Lisa McCann of Ronda and boyfriend Gary Perdue, and two sons, Tony Dale Watson and girlfriend Jessica Venable of Ennice, NC; Larry Watson and wife Jessica Watson of State Road; four sisters, Patsy Lail, Rita Anderson.Tina Lambert, and Angie Holder; two brothers, James Handy and Chris Mcharque  Thirteen grandchildren and six great grandchildren, and a special friend, Jimmy Billings.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to the Donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.reinssturdivant.com

  James Jackson “Jack” Brown, Jr., 63

James Jackson “Jack” Brown, Jr., age 63, of Hays, passed away Sunday, February 23, 2020 at his home. Jack was born January 30, 1957 in Wilkes County to James Jackson “Jim” Brown, Sr. and Sally Brewer Brown.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his daughter, Carrie Beasey of Hays; grandson, Tyler Beasey of Hays; sister, Jennifer Fuller and spouse Ralph of Hays; nephew, Clinton Fuller and spouse Brandy of Hays; niece, Christina Call of Wilkesboro; two great nieces; great nephew, Nathan Call of Wilkesboro.

Memorial service was held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Miller Funeral Chapel. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com

  Dare Foster Moore, age 89

Dare Foster Moore, age 89, of Wilkesboro, passed away Monday, February 24, 2020 at Wake Forest Baptist Health-Wilkes Regional. She was born September 3, 1930 in Wilkes County to Alonzo and Nora Riggs McNeil. Mrs. Moore was a member of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. She loved cooking, music, dancing, fashion and decorating. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bobby Ray Moore; son, Michael Foster; daughter, Susan Faye Foster; four brothers; and four sisters.

Mrs. Moore is survived by her children, Cathryn Aldridge of Columbia, South Carolina, Debbie Foster, Tim Foster and spouse Melanie all of Wilkesboro, Jodi Foster of Asheville, Sandi Foster of Wilkesboro; six grandchildren; six great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service was held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church with Pastor Kevin Brown officiating. Burial followed in the Church Cemetery. The family received friends at Mount  Pleasant Baptist Church from 1:00 until 2:00 on Saturday, prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice, 688 North Bridge Street, Elkin, NC 28621. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com

  Bina Louise Myers, 82

Bina Louise Myers, age 82, of Hays, went home to be with Jesus, Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at her home. Mrs. Myers was born March 12, 1937 in Watauga County to Edward and Lona Belle Tedder Brewer. She was a member of Rose of Sharon Baptist Church and was a prayer warrior. Bina loved gardening. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, James Brewer, Dean Brewer, sisters, Ella Mae Huggins and Jean Ring; son-in-law, Craig Gambill.

Surviving are her husband, Bill Myers of the home; daughter, Pat Gambill of Hays; sons, Billy Myers and spouse Susan of Millers Creek, Charles Myers and spouse Rachel of Hays; grandchildren, Jamie Gambill of Hays, Anthony Myers and spouse Ashley of Winston Salem, Will Myers of Millers Creek, Acacia Myers of Thomasville, Steven Myers of Hays; great granddaughter, Grace Gambill of Hays.

 Funeral service were held 12:00 p.m. Friday, February 28, 2020 at Rose of Sharon Baptist Church with Rev. Steven Shumate and Rev. Travis Brown officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery. The family received friends at Rose of Sharon Baptist Church from 11:00 until 12:00 on Friday, prior to the service. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com

Pallbearers will be Anthony Myers, Will Myers, Steven Myers, Allen Holbrook, Jim Wood and Bill Gryder.

 Clyde Grady Nickelson, age 83

Clyde Grady Nickelson, age 83, of Millers Creek, passed away Monday, February 24, 2020 at his home. Clyde was born July 12, 1936 in Ashe County to Robnit and Grace Barker Nickelson. He was a member of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church. He loved to garden, loved his plants and trees, and being outdoors. Clyde worked for Lowe’s Co. as a truck driver and 33 years for Skyline Marina as manager. Mr. Nickelson was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Jim Stone.

Surviving are his wife, Dorothy Johnson Nickelson; sons, Clyde Nickelson, Jr. of Ronda, Michael Shane Nickelson of Purlear; daughters, Phyllis Keen of Layton, Utah, Roberta Hadley of Las Vegas, Nevada, Sheree Smith of Victory, Texas; brother, Duane Stone of Millers Creek; nine grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service were held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 26, 2020 at Miller Funeral Chapel with Rev. Sherrill Wellborn and Randy Gambill officiating. Burial followed in Mountlawn Memorial Park. The family received friends at Miller Funeral Service from 12:00 until 1:00 on Wednesday, prior to the service. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Ebenezer Christian Children’s Home, PO Box 2777, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com

 Kaye C. Reid, age 81

Kaye C. Reid, age 81, of Purlear, went home to be with her Lord, Sunday, February 23, 2020 at her home. Kaye was born May 18, 1938 in Wilkes County to E.M. and Iola Church Campbell.  Mrs. Reid was a member of Rock Creek Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Billy Wayne Reid; brother, Bobby Campbell; and sister, Virgie Campbell.

Kaye is survived by her son, Guy Wayne Reid and spouse Lonnitta of Millers Creek; grandson, David Wayne Reid and spouse Jamie of Cary; granddaughter, Ricquell Cooper of Charlotte; great grandson, Gavin Wayne Reid of Cary; brother, James Campbell and spouse Judy of Wilkesboro; sister, Jane Bouchelle and spouse Jim of North Wilkesboro; a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral service were held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, February 27, 2020 at Rock Creek Church of Christ with Pastor Michael Howard officiating. Private burial was in the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to Rock Creek Church of Christ Church, c/o Chuck Wallis, 748 Campbell Road, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 or to Samaritan Kitchen of Wilkes, PO Box 1072 Wilkesboro, NC 28697. Miller Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to www.millerfuneralservice.com