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Memories of Lincoln Memorial live on, 50 years later

The Lincoln Memorial High School Class of 1967 has its 50th anniverary reunion this week. Among those planning to attend are, from left, Lynette Edwards, Madeline Pearson, Alex Bullock Jr., Sharon Wells Jones, Joann Thomas Surrency, Betty Lou Sailes Rhodes, and Valerie Adams Bowden. They are standing under pictures of past principals of the school.
The Lincoln Memorial High School Class of 1967 has its 50th anniverary reunion this week. Among those planning to attend are, from left, Lynette Edwards, Madeline Pearson, Alex Bullock Jr., Sharon Wells Jones, Joann Thomas Surrency, Betty Lou Sailes Rhodes, and Valerie Adams Bowden. They are standing under pictures of past principals of the school. jajones1@bradenton.com

I just read the article by James A. Jones, Jr., “50 years later, Lincoln graduate remain grateful to caring teacher.”

One of my fondest memories of Lincoln Memorial High School was of Mrs. Greene, the guidance counselor who was a driving force in getting the most opportunities for her students and her dedication to the improvement of her students’ well-being. Not only did she walk the walk and talk the talk, she contributed much to her community. And her two children, Mrs. Walter (Joyce Greene) Kerce and her son James Greene, speak volumes as to good citizenship and community growth made by her family.

Mr. Tillman was a giant in statute and in his work during very turbulent times. I member how strong a man he was and how he fought for improvement to his high school.

I remember Coach Shannon during those times and admired his strength of character with his football team, and that he produced a winner in football and his discipline and fortitude in working with students. An amazing man.

These were truly outstanding individuals who were dedicated to their students and who were really great and honorable people.

John Mohr had it right in his song and describes these wonderful people:

O may all who come behind us find us faithful;

May the fire of our devotion light their way.

May the footprints that we leave lead them to believe,

And the lives we live inspire them to obey.

Daniel B. Pope Sr.

Bradenton

This story was originally published June 24, 2017 at 2:08 PM with the headline "Memories of Lincoln Memorial live on, 50 years later."

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