HOME Welcome

TFS welcomed home alumni at the first TFS homecoming post pandemic. Alumni gathered together in the natatorium on a rainy Friday afternoon, April 14.

Gathered alumni, spanning seven decades, could be heard sharing stories from their years at TFS including tales of interesting science experiments, moments from math classes with Mrs. Harris, and putting together last-minute English papers. Others reminisced about Reverend Turpin bringing students from Y camp straight to work study. “They were so excited to be here and see each other,” said Turpin.

Larry Vickers, class of 1971, served for 20 years in the air force before starting his own trucking company. He believes his math background at TFS was influential in his success. “Math is everything,” he said. “Do math and then learn how to write.” He remembered how his teachers figured out his learning style and helped him develop a method to work for him.

James Henager, class of 2009 runs logistics for a large restaurant supply chain. Henager reflected on his experiences at TFS. “I remember when my English teacher, Terri Bogan, gave us our senior project,” said Henager. The project focused on thinking about a future job. “It was simulating what would happen in a job situation and we had to think ahead. What we did is a lot of what I do in my work today.”

Crystal Hitchcock, class of 2010, remembers TFS as a safe place to come to school. “I learned I was an athlete,” she said. “I played volleyball and ran track and field.” Hitchcock discovered that she could excel in academics. “A teacher took her time to help me. I learned I could do it, but that I had to work at it,” she said.

While Dean of Students Jimmy Franklin gave campus tours, alumni were able to view visual artwork displayed throughout the natatorium, listen to several student musicians play the piano, and watch the fifth grade synchronized swim club perform pieces of their spring show. Students from the entrepreneur class brought over a pop-up school store and sold TFS merchandise.

Executive Director for Advancement Sonya Smith welcomed alumni and introduced President and Head of School Dr. Larry A. Peevy. Peevy shared a warm welcome with alumni and gave a school update. “A lot has probably changed with our growth, but I am proud to say that one thing hasn’t changed, though. Our family atmosphere is still the same,” he said. “When you ask our students what they like best about TFS, the sense of family comes up over and over. Family continues to be an important part of our culture.”

Alumni Coordinator Linda Harris presented this year’s Outstanding Former Student award to 1973 TFS alumna Irene Henry Gray. Gray has been a valuable member of the TFS community for more than fifty years as a student, alumna, parent, employee, and alumni committee member.

“Irene has been an integral part of the TFS family for many years, and we are thrilled to honor her with this award,” said Harris. “Her dedication and commitment to the school and our alumni community are truly remarkable.”

Gray enrolled at TFS in 1970 and graduated as valedictorian of her 21-member class in 1973. As a student, she was actively involved in Student Council, served as vice president her senior year, and cheered on the basketball team as a cheerleader. Gray also swam on the school’s inaugural swim team and competed in regional and state chorus competitions.

After completing her bachelor’s degree at Wesleyan College, Gray returned to TFS in 1994 as a member of the admissions office. She later moved to the upper school and served as the academic office assistant from 1995-2016 and then as the school’s registrar until her retirement in 2019. During her tenure, she also worked with the alumni committee for nearly 25 years, leading their efforts for much of that time.

The Outstanding Former Student Award recognizes TFS alumni who have made significant contributions to their profession, community, or the school.

After accepting the award, Grey gave a brief speech. “TFS brings students in, accepts them the way they are and helps them to be the best they can be,” said Gray.

Member of the Class of 1955, the former Dean of Students, and an honorary member of the Board of Trustees Reverend James Turpen gave a blessing for the indoor cook-in served by the dining hall staff.

Linda Harris’ words express the true TFS spirit found within each of our alumni. “Everyone takes a little and everyone leaves a little. TFS has a heart. You came to feel that heart beat,” Harris said. “Every one of you is uniquely made. I can’t wait to see the next bunch of unique personalities.”

In Memoriam

Attended Tallulah Falls School

Mary Shirley Crow, Age 95September 5, 2022

Ruby Ann Youngblood Gailey, Age 83March 22, 2023

CLASS OF 1942

Mildred Wilbanks HarberJanuary 24, 2022

CLASS OF 1946

Evelyn Brumbelow OwensDecember 10, 2022

CLASS OF 1949

Marilyn Miller Irlbacher - May 9, 2022

Col. Willys Everett Davis - November 15, 2022

CLASS OF 1954

Joel K. Huggins - May 16, 2022

CLASS OF 1958

Grady Melvin Smith - February 23, 2023

CLASS OF 1964

Sheila Roane Gaillard - October 2, 2022

CLASS OF 2016

Taylor Nicole Trimiar - September 30, 2022