Bringing back old memories was the highlight of the day in Pinehurst last week when four elderly ladies from Gibson were honored by two brothers, Jim and Ben Pate, former residents of Gibson. Ben now lives in West End and Jim lives in Pinehurst.
I am writing this letter on behalf of the other three ladies — Lula Dell Cottingham, 87, Anita Geal, 94, and Gene Odom, 96. We received an invitation from the Pate brothers to spend a day with them. They never forgot the “good old days” when they grew up in Gibson, so they wanted a day of celebrating these memories.
They expressed their appreciation for us being an important part of what continues to be so important about about Gibson.
Quoting Jim and Ben: “Your legacy of teaching, nurturing and guiding so many children in your lifetime will never be forgotten.”
On that important day, we were transported to and from Pinehurst, had a delicious lunch at the Carolina and a short tour of Pinehurst. As we sat around the table, many memories were exchanged. Ben’s wife Carol presented each of us with a beautiful bouquet of red roses.
As I said, many memories were shared, and that is the reason for my letter. Back when these brothers were growing up in Gibson, along with my children and many others, I didn’t realize how important it is to show children there is a right way and a wrong way to live. You may not think it makes a difference, but it does, and it will show up later as they become the adults of tomorrow.
To the elderly in our communities, you may think you are forgotten, but there are those who care and who would love to share their memories with you.
These four “little old ladies” had a day they will never forget. A big thank you to Ben and Jim.
Sadie Lytch Odom
Gibson