Western Tidewater Living - Winter 2010

Tradition with elegance Christmas dinner with Joan Bunn

A lifetime of learning Gates Scholar adjusts to college life

Catching up with ...

S. Bernard Goodwyn

Wint er 2010 • vol. 1, no. 4

Age 9: Discovered a mutual delight in practical jokes during a Scouts’ outing.

Age 20: Every Friday night, drinks with the boys.

Age 35: Jobs in different towns and family obligations – difficult to keep in touch.

Age 57: Both recall the pact they made as kids to be “lifelong buddies.”

Age 76: Reunited when they both moved to The Village.

And quickly rediscovered their delight in practical jokes.

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6 western tidewater living

letter from the publisher

H

ere at The Tidewater News, we love it when Joan Bunn pays a visit.

That’s because she’s likely to come bearing bread.

The latest news article from the Newsoms United Methodist Women – or a friendly ad solicitation for the group’s annual calendar – is usually accompanied by homemade rolls that make my mouth water.

If they make it to my office, that is.

Oftentimes, the rolls get no further than the front desk, devoured by colleagues who, like me, find them irresistible.

If Joan Bunn and Jean Bradshaw, whose rolls were featured in this magazine’s debut issue last spring, ever have a bake-off, please sign me up as a judge.

Joan graces the cover of our winter issue, and we feature a couple of her best holiday recipes on Page 31.

We hope you enjoy the magazine, which we expedited for pre-Christmas delivery. The staff of Western Tidewater Living wishes you and yours a merry Christmas and a healthy, prosperous 2011. Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely, Steve Stewart

letters to the editor

Y

Dear editor, ou must be thoroughly exhausted from receiving all of the accolades following the publication of the latest issue of Western Tidewater Living.

Naturally, the first thing that we looked for was the placement of the ad for our store, Billy Phillips Ltd. Then we began reading every single word and scrutinizing the many pictures. What a fine tribute this is to our area!

You and your staff are to be commended. Please, please keep up the good work.

Toni and Billy Phillips Franklin

I

Dear editor, ’ve been remiss in not writing to you regarding the latest issue of Western Tidewater Living. You have managed to make me homesick to some degree in just about every article!

The story by Susan Taylor Block was most interesting and included references to three or four family members. The item about Pat and Sybil Newman’s daughter, Natalie, was wonderful.

Pat was “second in command” at the Y when I was on the board in the late 1970s. Their daughter and my stepson, Jason Shuffler, have acted together in “Grease.” Jason is currently doing a national tour with the play “Shrek The Musical.” Small world!

Packy Jervey was a cousin on my mom’s side of the family.

To see the great success that his granddaughter Samantha is achieving is really interesting to me, and I only wish he was around to take pride in her.

Kitty and Roy Lassiter have been close friends of my family for more than 80 years. My mom and Kitty were best friends and next-door neighbors when they were little girls of preschool age.

They have remained the closest of friends over the years.

Their family and ours shared a place at Virginia Beach for vacations for years. Roy was a decorated pilot during World War II. At 92, he’s still sharp and recalls everything about those days.

In general, your staff does a great job every week with The Tidewater News. Your decision to publish Western Tidewater Living was on target!

This issue also contained references to Linda Updike, Linda Beatty, Bill Vick, Hoyle Green and many more people whom I have known during my life.

Finally, what can I say about the article on the Capron Social Club? All of the guys there have been a part of my life for my entire life! Charlie Settle, Everett Crocker, John Elwood Fox, Paul Marks (ya’ think?) and many others who frequent the club are truly dear to me, and I count myself lucky to call them friends.

When I read that they sometimes have guests from as far away as Virginia Beach, I was a little miffed that they didn’t recall my visiting all the way from Columbia, S.C. Then, as I reflected on it, I realized that they don’t see me as a guest at all. What a wonderful thing to be accepted in that circle after all these years. You can go home again!

Thanks for helping to keep me informed about and included in the events of the area that will forever be my home.

Doug Marks Columbia, S.C.

contents | winter 2010

Cover photograph

by Merle Monahan

Wi nt er

no . 4 vo l. 1, 20 10 •

ON THE COVER: Newsoms’ Joan Bunn is cooking up something good for Christmas. See story on page 30.

Inside this edition Steve Stewart Publisher Gwen Albers Managing editor

9

party pix

S. Bernard Goodwyn story by Merle Monahan

V

From football tailgate parties to charity fundraisers, Western Tidewater residents have had a busy fall.

irginia Supreme Court Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn learned at a young age that it takes hard work to succeed.

“And that is why he is a Supreme Court Justice today,” said his former Southampton High School teacher and football coach Wayne Cosby.

“Bernard was a model student,” Cosby said.

“He worked hard and excelled in everything he did, from academics to sports. He is deserving of everything he has achieved.”

Goodwyn was appointed to the Court by former Virginia Gov. Timothy Kaine in 2007. He was a Chesapeake Circuit Judge at the time. He had been living in Chesapeake since 1988, with his wife, Sharon, and children, Sam and Sarah.

Goodwyn said he is thankful to have the opportunity to serve on the state’s highest court, although things can get pretty hectic when court is in session.

“We have a lot of difficult issues facing us at this time,” he said. “But I’ve always enjoyed a challenge.”

Goodwyn’s appointment was the first time in 49 years for a Hampton Roads-based jurist to be chosen for the high court. His appointment also marks the first time two black judges have sat concurrently on the court. The other was Chief Justice Leroy R. Hassell.

In announcing Goodwyn’s appointment,

Nicholas Langhorne Staff writer Merle Monahan Contributing writer Kate Archer Contributing writer

Loretta Lomax Editorial assistant Tony Clark Marketing consultant/ Director of special projects Mitzi Lusk Marketing consultant Sara Johnson Marketing consultant Michelle Stainback Office manager Western Tidewater Living is published four times a year by Tidewater Publications, LLC P.O. Box 497, Franklin, VA 23851 www.westerntidewaterliving.com 757-562-3187 Advertising rates and information available upon request to magazine@ tidewaternews.com. Subscriptions are $20 annually in-state; $24 annually out of state; and $30 annually overseas.

Kaine said he selected the 49-year-old because he admired the judge’s legal acumen, high esteem from other lawyers and judges, and his ability to work with others.

The justice also received high marks on his appointment from his associates and friends.

“Bernard is one of the finest men I know,” said Southampton County Circuit Court Clerk Rick Francis, who grew up with Goodwyn. “I was very pleased to hear that he had been chosen for the Court.”

Cosby, who also is a retired Southampton County Circuit Court Clerk, agreed.

“Gov. Kaine could not have chosen a better person,” Cosby said. “I’ve always known that Bernard would go far.”

A native of Boykins, Goodwyn attended Southampton County Schools. His parents, Sam and Dolly, stressed the importance of learning and urged their four children to get an education.

It is no wonder that Goodwyn became an honor student, in addition to a star quarterback.

In a game against Gate City High, Goodwyn threw two touchdowns and ran for a third, leading his team to a 1979 state championship.

Goodwyn graduated with honors from Harvard University, where he was a member of the track team.

Goodwyn earned his law degree from the University of Virginia, where he was an editor of the Virginia Tax Review and received the Ritter Award for honor, character and integrity.

Goodwyn taught at UVA during the 1994-95 school year as a research associate professor of law.

He became a partner in 1992 at Wilcox and Savage, a Norfolk-based law firm. During this time, Goodwyn worked as a substitute judge, and in 1995, was appointed as a General District Court Judge. Two years later, he was appointed as a Circuit Court Judge.

Despite the demands of his job, Goodwyn still returns to the place of his birth frequently to visit his mother, who is not well. His father died three years ago.

“Southampton County is a wonderful environment in which to grow up,” Goodwyn said.

“The people are good, honest and hard-working. Most will go out of their way to help you.”

“I am grateful for the help I’ve received from both my friends and peers,” he added.

Goodwyn’s term will expire in 2020. ←

17

It’s Happening Take a look at some fun things to do this winter.

Troy Cooper Designer Ryan Outlaw Designer

western tidewater living 19

catching up with ...

western tidewater living

as good as it gets BON SECOURS MARYVIEW — AN AWARD-WINNING HOSPITAL CLOSE TO HOME

22

FULL RIDE

where am I?

I

n each edition the magazine staff will provide a challenge of sorts, testing how much of Western Tidewater you really know. We will photograph a scene in the area that is readily visible to motorists or pedestrians.

If you know where this photo was taken, you will be entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to any one of our partner advertisers.

So, if you know where this is, let us know. If you’re right, you could be a winner.

E-mail your answer to magazine@tidewaternews.com.

Go out and enjoy Western Tidewater!

Gates Millennium Scholar Shaleetta Hicks of Franklin adjusting to life at University of Richmond.

Clinical excellence, personalized care.

That’s what you’ll find at Maryview Medical Center, western Hampton Roads’ only open heart hospital. The Bon Secours Heart and Vascular Institute at

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27

19

Each quarter our magazine catches up with a Western Tidewater native who is living and working outside the area. In this issue, we share the story of Virginia Supreme Court Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn.

27

Tell us where our photographer took these photos and get a chance to win a gift certificate.

Combined, all these accolades mean that at Maryview, you’ll find world-class care – right in your own backyard. That really is as good as it gets.

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30 BON SECOURS MARYVIEW MEDICAL CENTER

Holiday feast

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See what Newsoms’ Joan Bunn has planned for Christmas dinner.

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46

46 western tidewater living

common ground

32

CHRISTMAS IN SMITHFIELD Shops in quaint historic downtown offer unique opportunity.

coming home for Christmas A

h, there’s nothing quite like it.

It’s driving into the memories as all the old familiar places roll past the windshield and come up to nestle in your heart and say “remember when we….?” and “there’s where we…….” and “over there is the place that……...”

They call out like old friends, opening caverns long ago forgotten. They call you home.

The heart beats faster as your destination nears. The pull, like a magnet, intensifies as you draw closer.

It’s driving into a yard that was once your whole world filled with adventures. Your adventures. Of dreaming and daring and discovery. Of scrapes and cuts and bruises. Of inventions and imaginations and possibilities.

It beckoned you out every day, wrapping its arms around you, bidding you into its playground.

It’s stepping through an old threshold and

being enveloped by the aroma of the past. For no scent known to man, though he were to search the world over, can match the simple, intoxicating fragrance of home.

It’s looking into the faces and feeling the arms of those who at one time could solve all problems, knew all answers and were always there. Hands that rocked you to sleep, fixed your wounds, cooked your meals. Eyes that cried when you cried and laughed with you.

A voice that could stop children in their tracks or soothe the worst pain. Though the smiles are not quite as broad, the faces bear a few more crevasses and the step a might slow-

Columnist Rex Alphin writes about Christmas homecomings. column and photo by Rex Alphin

er, the heart beats larger than ever.

It’s knowing the rooms and the landscape.

Where things once were, are now, and will be, at least in your mind, forever.

Knowing the history behind all the dents, cracks and scratches. There are your brother’s teeth marks, behind there is where you spilled the tea. On that sofa you often fell asleep, and around the corner is the crack in the wall from a wrestling match.

The sun still shines in the window as it always did. That creak in the floor is still there.

The third cabinet door has that old squeak and the mesmerizing aroma of food curls into the living room like always.

No ornate castle can compare. No stately mansion can compete, for these things cannot be purchased. They are simply captured in human hearts, making their owners rich indeed.

Ah, Dorothy was right. There really is no place like home. Especially at Christmas. ←

8 western tidewater living

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9

party pix Pork and Fork

The Hamtown Pork and Fork Fest was held at the Isle of Wight Fairgrounds on Nov. 6. Upper left, Herbert Kelly, left, and Herbert Gray, both of Smithfield; lower left, Jennifer Williams of Southington, Conn., Kim Giltner, her 4-week-old, Abigail, and Joe Giltner, all of Smithfield, and Cristie Mann of Cape Coral, Fla.; upper right, C.J. Wilder of Half Moon, Ark., Joey Marades of Smithfield, Chris Anderson of Glenville, Ga., Kerry Reed of Hershey, Pa., and David Adam Byrnes of Sherwood, Ark. The guys belong to the band David Adam Byrnes & the Sweet D’s and played during Fork and Pork; lower right, Paula Alperin and Jerry and Joan Baydush, all of Norfolk.

Photos by Gwen Albers

Franklin Fall Festival

Below, Dan Howe with board members Karry Harrell, left, and Kathy Worrell, worked the Downtown Franklin Association’s annual Fall Festival in early October. At right, Genemarie Cargile gives her pug puppy a break from walking.

10 western tidewater living

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11

party pix SEDLEY Halloween Party

The Sedley Woman’s Club Halloween Party was held at the Sedley Volunteer Fire Department on Oct. 30. At left, Sedley Woman’s Club members selling homemade baked goods were, from left, Nancy Coggsdale, Pat Johnson, Sandy Kirkland and Audrey Hancock; below left, Elena Turner, 4, Brad Turner, Wayne Turner, Emma Turner, Mary Ann Turner and Ali Turner, 4 months; below middle, Matthew Martin and his son, Gavin, 3, of Sedley; lower right, Debbie Singleton, left, and Allison Lilly.

Photos By Gwen Albers

Pork Chop dinner

The Franklin Kiwanis Club’s pork chop dinner was held at Fred’s restaurant in September. Upper left, Southampton High School Key Club members, from left, Kelsey Thomas, Jordan Hewett, Justin McHenry and Sarah Cook; upper right, Mary and Kevin Insull; bottom left, Key Club member Justin McHenry, Kiwanis Advisor to the Key Club Nancy McCormick and Kiwanis Secretary Gregory Cook; bottom middle, Pat Ballard, president of the Kiwanis Club, and David Rabil of Fred’s; bottom right, Nils Melkerson and Beth and Barry Cheatham.

Photos by Andrew Faison

12 western tidewater living

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western tidewater living

13

party pix Band of Brothers

Pat Hartman, left, Paul Rogers, Ed Shames and Ed Hartman attend a 92nd birthday party for Sgt. Paul C. Rogers of the Band of Brothers on July 17 at The Pace House in Franklin. Col. Edward Shames of Virginia Beach, who also was a member of E Company 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment with Rogers, also attended.

Tailgating at southampton high

Southampton High School held a homecoming tailgate party before the Oct. 19 football game. Above, front from left, Brittany Flowers and Shalina Taylor, and in back, Elmo, Marquita Mitchell, SpongeBob and Taylor Everett; upper right, Bryant Holt, Bill Wright and Allene Atkinson; at right, Darian Bell, Aronda Bell and Shirley Frenzley; bottom right, in front from left, Tyler Richards and Cody Drake, and in back, Tommy Haggans, Matthew Jones, Hayley Morgan, Kyler Hartman and Lionel Morgan; below, Bobbie Novell, Shayla Grant, Jordan Pulley and Trevor Andre.

Photos By ANDREW Faison

14 western tidewater living

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western tidewater living

15

party pix

Rod and Gun Club

The Bronco Rod and Gun Club’s fall fundraiser drew a big crowd to the Nottoway River in September. Upper left, in no particular order, Susan Draper, Walter Worrell, Sandy Edwards, Steve Edwards and Bobbie Worrell, all of Suffolk; Laurie Eller, Vickie Jean, Carla Jones, all of Holland; Debbie Eisner of Windsor; and Carolyn Lowe, Nancy Lee and Terry Holloman, all of Franklin; top right, Sue Ann Raiford of Sedley and Betty Whitenack of Newport News; at left, Patty Turner and Robin Stradley, both of Franklin, and Meg Holland of Windsor; above, Jackie Holland, first vice president of the Bronco Rod and Gun Club, and Charles Martin, president.

Photos BY Merle Monahan

Casino Night

Far left, Heidi Jacobsen, left, Shannon Russell and Anita Waters attend Casino Night on Nov. 6 at the American Legion in Franklin. The fundraiser benefited the Alzheimer’s Association. At left, Glenn Pierce and Juanita Richards; below, Tammy Maurer, left, Gregg Vincent and Shonna Vincent.

16 western tidewater living

party pix myrick Appreciation Program

Roger Myrick Sr., who retired in June 1991 from Southampton County Public Schools after a 36year career, was honored during an appreciation program on Nov. 13 at Capron Elementary School. Myrick taught high school history and social studies. Upper left, Vivian Whitfield, left, John Wyche and Ernestine Barnes, all of Capron; upper right, Patricia and Cleveland Lamison, both of Richmond, and Glenda Deberry Taylor of Franklin; lower left, Roger and Amphia Mae Myrick; lower right, Southampton County Supervisor Carl Faison with his wife, the Rev. Lillie Faison, and granddaughter, Laila Beck.

Photos BY Merle Monahan

windsor high Reunion

The Windsor High School classes of 1950 through 1959 met for a reunion Nov. 6 at Hilton Garden Inn in Suffolk; at right, Sally Copeland with her mother, Betty Ann Copeland, both from Portsmouth; far right, former WHS teacher Hester Spivey, Dean Murphy Gilmore of Windsor and Lawrence Bailey Carr of Zuni. bottom, Kitty Henry of Windsor, Shirley Carr of Zuni and Helen Kello of Suffolk.

Photos BY Merle Monahan

western tidewater living

17

CALENDAR OF EVENTS December—Franklin Farmers’ Market Location: 210 S. Main St. next to Franklin Depot/Visitors Center.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday. A variety of vendors are on hand with fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, plants and more. Although the market closes at 1 p.m., it doesn’t mean vendors pack up and leave for the day.

12/19—Holy Light Location: Franklin Baptist, 208 N. High St. At 11 a.m. there will be a performance of the Chancel Choir, Congregation, Brass Quintet, Organ and Handbells.

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12/24—Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Location: Franklin Baptist, 208 N. High St. Service will be held 4:30 p.m., with pre-service music beginning at 3:30.

12/31—New Year’s Eve Dance Location: FranklinSouthampton County Fairgrounds Hours are 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. The FranklinSouthampton County Fair Board will host the dance featuring Silver Street. The cost is $40 per couple. For tickets or more information call 6531679 or 334-2200.

Easter Egg Hunt

1/6—Pre-Legislative session Breakfast Location: Smithfield Center Hours are 8 to 10 a.m. The event, featuring state legislators who represent Isle of Wight County, is hosted by Smithfield-Isle of Wight-Windsor Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 357-3502.

2/12—Valentine’s Dance Location: Southampton Ag Center Hours are 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. for the Sedley Woman’s Club event.

3/16—Isle Business Show Location: Smithfield Center Hours are 4 to 7 p.m. The event is hosted by Smithfield-Isle of Wight-Windsor Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 357-3502.

3/24—Post-Legislative session Breakfast Location: Windsor Ruritan Club Hours are 8 to 10 a.m. The event, featuring state legislators who represent Isle of Wight County, is hosted by Smithfield-Isle of Wight-Windsor Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 357-3502.

4/2—Clean Rivers Day Location: Franklin Volunteers will pick up trash along the Blackwater and Nottoway rivers, as well as in the areas that feed them. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call RiverkeeperJeff Turner for details at 562-5173.

4/16—Easter Egg Hunt Location: Barrett’s Landing at 300 S. Main St., Franklin Hours are 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. At the stroke of 11, the children will be given the go-ahead by the Easter Bunny to start the search for Easter eggs and treats.

18 western tidewater living

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western tidewater living

19

S. Bernard Goodwyn story by Merle Monahan

V

irginia Supreme Court Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn learned at a young age that it takes hard work to succeed.

“And that is why he is a Supreme Court Justice today,” said his former Southampton High School teacher and football coach, Wayne Cosby.

“Bernard was a model student,” Cosby said.

“He worked hard and excelled in everything he did, from academics to sports. He is deserving of everything he has achieved.”

Goodwyn was appointed to the court by former Virginia Gov. Timothy Kaine in 2007. He was a Chesapeake circuit judge at the time. He had been living in Chesapeake since 1988 with his wife, Sharon, and children, Sam and Sarah.

Goodwyn is thankful to have the opportunity to serve on the state’s highest court, although things can get pretty hectic when court is in session.

“We have a lot of difficult issues facing us at this time,” he said. “But I’ve always enjoyed a challenge.”

Goodwyn’s appointment was the first time in 49 years that a Hampton Roads-based jurist was chosen for the high court. His appointment also marks the first time two black judges have sat concurrently on the court, the other being Chief Justice Leroy R. Hassell.

In announcing Goodwyn’s appointment,

Kaine said he selected the 49-year-old because he admired the judge’s legal acumen, high esteem from other lawyers and judges, and his ability to work with others.

“Bernard is one of the finest men I know,” said Southampton County Circuit Court Clerk Rick Francis, who grew up with Goodwyn in Boykins. “I was very pleased to hear that he had been chosen for the court.”

Cosby, who also is a retired Southampton County Circuit Court clerk, agreed.

“Gov. Kaine could not have chosen a better person,” Cosby said. “I’ve always known that Bernard would go far.”

A native of Boykins, Goodwyn attended Southampton County schools. His parents, Sam and Dolly, stressed the importance of learning and urged their four children to get an education.

It is no wonder that Goodwyn became an honor student, in addition to a star quarterback. In a game against Gate City High, Goodwyn threw two touchdown passes and ran for a

third, leading his team to a state championship in 1979.

Goodwyn graduated with honors from Harvard University, where he was a member of the track team.

He earned his law degree from the University of Virginia, where he was an editor of the Virginia Tax Review and received the Ritter Award for honor, character and integrity.

Goodwyn taught at UVA during the 199495 school year as a research associate professor of law.

He became a partner in 1992 at Wilcox and Savage, a Norfolk-based law firm. During this time, Goodwyn worked as a substitute judge, and in 1995, he was appointed as a General District Court judge. Two years later, he was appointed as a Circuit Court judge.

Despite the demands of his job, Goodwyn still returns to the place of his birth frequently to visit his ailing mother. His father died three years ago.

“Southampton County is a wonderful environment in which to grow up,” said Goodwyn, whose Supreme Court term will expire in 2020. “The people are good, honest and hardworking. Most will go out of their way to help you.”

“I am grateful for the help I’ve received from both my friends and peers,” he added. ←

20 western tidewater living

memory lane Young JoAnn West and her mom, MaryAnn, in their back yard in Ivor circa 1955.

story by JoAnn Hall

ca·thar·sis 1. the purging of the emotions or relieving of emotional tensions, esp. through certain kinds of art, as tragedy or music.

M

y dad died last September, and I still miss him so much. I know — I was lucky to have him for 50 years of my life. Many people aren’t so fortunate. But that doesn’t make it easier.

He died suddenly. It was a brilliant September day, and fall was definitely in the air. He left his pretty little house in Ivor about 7:30 a.m. and headed out for his daily walk — two miles through town and down New Road, and two miles back.

I can see him now, grabbing his baseball cap,

checking his watch and scrambling down the back steps. He walked every day, but I know in his heart what he really wanted to do was run, to run just as fast as he could. But he was 84, after all.

He never made it back that day, that beautiful autumn day of Sept. 5. He had a heart attack along the way, and a very kind lady found him unconscious alongside the back road. She held him in her arms and called 911, but he didn’t make it to the hospital. I never got to tell him goodbye.

I know — he would have wanted to go that way. Wouldn’t we all? He wouldn’t have wanted hospitals or nursing homes. I mean, who would?

But my mama was lost without him, and she

died just a few months later. They had been married 57 years. I don’t think she ever fully realized he was gone. She called for him all the time: “Russell!” But when you reminded her that he had passed away, she bowed her head and whispered, “I know.” It made my heart ache.

My parents loved each other with a deep, abiding, almost spiritual devotion that was more common in their day and less common in ours. They were so different, but they were bound to each other through a commitment like no other.

In the end, in the months and few years before their deaths, it was difficult for our family.

Mama was failing, and Daddy was determined to look after her all by himself. The confinement of being on-call nursemaid 24/7 wore him

western tidewater living down. We tried to help, but they were stubborn, and it took its toll on both of them.

So those were the memories on my mind — frustration and helplessness, and, after they died, grief and heartache. I know — it’s all part of the life cycle. But until it happens to you, it’s very hard to imagine.

And then came the slides! More than 200 boxes of 35mm slides crammed into a table drawer in their tidy light-green living room. The pictures started in 1952 (before I was born!) and ended just around 1977.

I went online and bought a $99 slide scanner that converts the antique images into digital files I can see and store on my computer. I set up a “picture station” in the guest suite we added onto our house for my parents’ visits. My dad always wanted to move here in their last years.

My Mama wouldn’t hear of it.

Then I started to scan. Almost immediately the sometimes grainy images made me smile and even laugh out loud. My Dad with hair (just a little). Grandma Vera, stern and solemn on a Victorian couch in the living room.

And Mama! Tall and thin, standing on the seashore in a pair of short shorts not unlike those worn by my own teenage girls, much to the dismay of their father and me.

She was so beautiful! He was so handsome! I couldn’t wait to see more.

Pictures of their first, tiny furniture store on Route 460 in Ivor. Pictures of parties with their friends and neighbors. Pictures at church, pictures of the yard, pictures of their brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews.

Oh! Pictures of me as a curly-haired baby with dark skin and fat cheeks. Pictures of me and Mama, with her looking as young as a teenager, but so proud and happy of her first baby girl. Pictures of me and Daddy, but not many of these because he was almost always the cameraman.

There’s me at my first birthday party in the back yard with a beautiful cake and all the neighborhood children gathered round. Me and my girlfriends who lived next door and our Easter parades to church. And then, me and my pretty little blonde-haired sister who arrived

Russell West and the author at Ocean View in 1957.

when I was almost 4 years old.

It was like a tiny miracle. As I scanned the pictures, sharing them with my family, lightness began to fill my heart. Truly. My parents were healthy and robust; their lives were full and happy. The slides were testament to the good life they shared for so many years.

There were my Mama’s canasta parties and my Dad’s furniture store, which kept growing as the years progressed. There were my ponies and my puppies, and all of my cousins from far away.

A box of slides labeled “The Mountains” contained a one-of-a-kind shot of yours truly perched on a scenic overlook in some plaid shorts and NO SHIRT! I was about 3 years old.

What’s up with that?

I love the “dress-up” pictures of me, and then later my sister and me. When my mother was out for the evening, my dad gave us total access to their grownup clothes, shoes and accessories.

Sometimes I was a “woman” and sometimes a “man.” Go figure.

We never traveled much or very far because Dad was pretty tied to his store. But there are four boxes of slides of our infamous vacation to Florida in the 1960s. My very favorite is a picture of Mom with a parrot perched on top of her head. (You would have to know my Mom to really appreciate this!)

And then there was the river — the James Riv-

21

er, that is. We had a cottage at Scotland Wharf for many years, and there were few things that Russell West loved more than the river, a fast boat and a pair of water skis. I think it was at Scotland that my parents and their friends had the best times of their lives.

There are a lot of pictures of my relatives because Pop was also really big on a family reunion. He came from a large family, and organizing get-togethers usually fell into his lap. Not that he minded, of course.

And there are tons of pictures of their friends and neighbors because my Dad loved to throw a party. He would use any excuse to get folks together and then play the gracious host, cooking on the grill, or arranging games like croquet, or badminton or, in his last days, his very favorite — cornhole.

Dad died two days before the Labor Day party he was planning for the neighborhood.

He had bought a new grill and assembled it the night before he took his last walk. He had been to Costco and stocked up on plates and cups, napkins and soft drinks. And he had already ordered the party cake — shaped and decorated like a cornhole game board. We ate it while we mourned.

The pictures have been my catharsis. My heart still aches sometimes when I think of my parents, and all that is lost with their passing. It gets a bit better as time goes by. But thanks to my dad’s slides, my memories are so different now. And they make me smile.

On my cell phone right now is a picture of my dad at age 17, just after he joined the U.S. Navy and headed into World War II. My computer wallpaper is that 1952 picture of my Mom standing on the beach in her short shorts. I had no idea, really.

So I’m reminded of two well-lived lives. Of two people who loved with a passion many of us will never know. Of two people born in simpler times who lived simple lives and never wanted more — just each other, their families and their friends.

I think we could all do with getting back to simpler times. I’m going to work on it, and I certainly have a great example to guide me. ←

22 western tidewater living

lifetime of learning Shaleetta Hicks named a Gates Millennium Scholar story and photography by Nicholas Langhorne

A

s Shaleetta Hicks walks the stately campus of the University of Richmond, tucked in the city’s affluent West End, she’s free of one worry that many of her classmates have.

Tuition.

Hicks, a 2010 Franklin High School graduate, was named a Gates Millennium Scholar, meaning her undergraduate education — and graduate and doctorate degrees — will all be paid for.

“Honestly, I was in shock until I came here and I knew that was going to happen,” Hicks said. “It’s a great honor.”

See HICKS page 23

western tidewater living

23

University of Richmond HICKS continued from page 22

The Gates Millennium Scholars Program, established in 1999, was initially funded by a $1 billion grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Students are eligible if they earn a cumulative grade-point average of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale and have demonstrated a leadership role in community service. The scholarship is open

to Americans of African, American Indian, Alaska Native, Hispanic and Asian and Pacific Islander descent.

Franklin City Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle Belle said the possibility of a Franklin High student being selected seemed “farfetched.” She couldn’t have been more pleased.

“We’re very proud of her, and I just wish her the best,” Belle said. “She has that spirit in her to be successful.”

Hicks, 18, is used to a busy schedule; she played six sports in high school while maintaining a 4.03 GPA. Her first semester in college, however, has been a bit of a challenge.

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24 western tidewater living HICKS continued from page 23

“It’s an adjustment because I’m not used to this fast-paced workload, but I’m adjusting well,” she said.

Hicks is enrolled in an “intense” math and science program.

“I love my professors. That’s the best thing about this school,” she said. “Since it’s so small, the professors have a very personal relationship with the students. Some schools are so big, the professors don’t even know your name.”

The University of Richmond is a private institution with about 4,300 students. Hicks said there are no other students from Franklin High there, but she has “met a lot of good friends.”

“There’s a lot of nice people here,” she said, noting that most of her classmates are from out of state.

“Apparently, I’m country,” Hicks said.

While she’s happy to be at the University of Richmond, it wasn’t even a consideration until relatively recently.

“I was all for William and Mary, since I was like 5, but when I visited this campus I felt at home,” she said.

Hicks said her pastor’s wife, who had a big influence in her life, also attended the University of Richmond.

“I feel like in my heart, this is the place for me,” Hicks said. “This place is going to ground

“I’ve been through a lot in my life. But I never had that mindset where I didn’t care about school.”

Shaleeta Hicks

me into the person that I need to be. No matter how much I struggle, I’m going to make it in the end.”

As for college life, classes and homework don’t leave Hicks with a lot of free time for other things, like sports, which were so important to her in high school.

“I’m on the club basketball team here, but I still don’t feel like I’m putting as much into it as I can because I’m so worried about my academics,” she said.

Although she is used to spending a lot of time away from home because of summer programs, Hicks misses her family and church,

601 N. Mechanic Street, Franklin, VA 757-562-3655 contact@pahrs.com • www.pahrs.com

First Baptist in Franklin.

“I miss my support system,” she said. “I did not know how much I depended on church.

I’m incomplete without it.”

Hicks said God, her family and church have helped her get where she is today.

“I’ve been through a lot in my life,” she said.

“But I never had that mindset where I didn’t care about school.”

On a trip back to Franklin for fall break, Hicks stopped by the high school and was asked to speak to some current students.

“College is fun, but at the same time it’s hard,” she told the students. “Don’t come in thinking it’s going to be easy, because it’s not.”

Belle said Hicks’ success has already encouraged other Franklin students to seek the Gates scholarship.

“There’s no question in my mind that she will be an inspiration to other students where they will aspire to do what she has done,” Belle said.

Hicks plans to take full advantage of the scholarship and purse master’s and doctorate degrees. She isn’t sure what career she’ll pursue at this point.

“It opens up a lot of doors,” Hicks said of the Gates scholarship. “I do plan on coming back to help the community in Franklin.” ←

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western tidewater living

where am I?

I

n each edition, our magazine’s staff provides a challenge of sorts for readers, testing how much of Western Tidewater you really know. We photograph a scene in the area that is readily visible to motorists or pedestrians.

If you know where this photo was taken, you will be entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to any one of our partner advertisers.

So, if you know where this is, let us know. If you’re right, you could be a winner.

E-mail your answer to magazine@tidewaternews.com.

Go out and enjoy Western Tidewater!

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Residents of Allyn, Wash., the Seibolds were on the road for two months. J.R. is the father of Mitzi Lusk of Sedley, who is a marketing consultant for The Tidewater News.

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30 western tidewater living

what’s cooking

tradition with some elegance story and photography

by Merle Monahan

N

obody loves a dinner party more than Joan Bunn. Warm friends, elegant dining and good conversation are things she treasures.

So much so that the retired schoolteacher, who lives in Newsoms, spends much of her time either planning or cooking a meal for her friends and family. The meal is usually served at her home.

It started years ago with her family. Every Sunday, she breaks out her best dinnerware and table linens, then serves a gourmet meal to her family, which today numbers 20 or more.

As time passed and the family grew larger, her daughters and daughters-in-law would bring a dish. But for the most part, Bunn cooks the meal herself.

“I love to cook,” she said. “I always have. I can’t say that any one person taught me — I learned to bake from my mother, who was a wonderful baker, but other things I just picked up. Actually, I’m still learning.”

Every Saturday morning, she has four or five of her women friends over for breakfast, after which they play board games. She also has part of her family for breakfast on Sundays.

“We have the traditional pancakes, eggs and sausage,” Bunn said, adding that she does the cooking. “Everybody seems to enjoy it.”

The active grandmother cooks so much that she almost always has an extra pie, or a dozen homemade rolls, on hand to take to a sick friend, or a bereaved family.

As president of the United Methodist Women at Newsoms Methodist, she is very active at church functions and recently donated dozens of her famous homemade rolls and several chocolate and lemon chess pies for the church bake sale.

She makes the rolls and chess pies ahead See COOKING page 31

western tidewater living

31

Cooking continued from page 30

and freezes them, giving her time to make the perishables at the last minute.

But Bunn allows herself plenty of time, when it is needed. Take the annual formal dinner she has at her home on Christmas Eve. “I send out invitations, and on the night of the party, I set my big dining room table with my best china, crystal and silverware, complete with place cards and a Christmas centerpiece,” Bunn said. “There is so much to do, I usually have this one catered. But it is festive. Most of us dress formally and just have a good time.”

There is an added element at this party.

“We always have entertainment,” she said.

“Neil Diamond” is the 2010 entertainer, and his performance is outstanding.

“But last year, Elvis showed up,” Bunn said with a smile. “When he sang and swiveled those hips, the ladies were beside themselves.”

Bunn said this was such a special occasion that she invited a number of friends and family after dinner to see the popular entertainer.

One of eight children, Bunn has always been big on family. She has her two sons and two daughters with their spouses and her 11 grandchildren to her home for the Christmas dinner.

This has been going on for years, long before her husband, J.C., died in 1997.

This is not the traditional Christmas dinner.

“We don’t have the ham and turkey, like everybody else,” Bunn said. “We have prime rib roast, smothered with sautéed onions and mushrooms.”

Bunn prepares the roast, a seven-layer salad, twice-baked potatoes, and sometimes, a lemon chess pie. Other members of the family bring vegetables, casseroles and an additional dessert.

“After dinner, the adults have coffee and the children have fruit punch while we open our gifts. It is a warm and comfortable time,” she said. ←

JOAN BUNN’S CHRISTMAS DINNER RECIPES PRIME RIB ROAST

YEAST ROLLS

Ingredients Prime rib roast, large enough to allow ½ pound per person Garlic Black pepper Dale’s steak seasoning Grandma’s molasses Onions and mushrooms.

Ingredients 2 ¼ cups warm water 5 envelopes dry yeast (1/4 cup) 1 cup sugar, minus 1 tablespoon 1 Tbls salt 1 cup warm vegetable oil ½ cup eggs, well beaten with following warm water ½ cup warm water 2-lb bag of all-purpose flour.

Directions Marinate roast for 24 hours in Dale’s steak sauce with a little added Grandma’s molasses.

Prepare meat by inserting marinate into crevices in beef with a large basting needle.

Also insert garlic pieces into crevices, then coat with black pepper. Begin cooking roast on rack in dry pan without cover in 550-degree oven. Cook beef for 10 minutes, then turn oven temperature to 300 degrees. Cook for about 3 ½ hours. As roast cooks, add about a cup of water to pan, as drippings will begin to burn. Do not let water touch roast. Use meat thermometer after the high cooking time to test for doneness. When done enough, let roast stand covered for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing.

Sautee onions and mushrooms with a little Grandma’s molasses to serve with beef.

Directions If possible, use Kitchen Aid Mixer. Start with very warm water, add yeast, sugar, salt, oil and egg–water mixture. Whisk until all is dissolved and finally, add sifted flour. Start mixer on lowest speed and finally turn it up to high speed. Beat 12 minutes — it will take the shape of a large dough ball. Stop mixer, remove beaters and set mixing bowl in warm oven for 25-30 minutes. Dough will rise until well over top of mixing bowl.

Grease six to eight baking pie tins with butter shortening. Pour roll mixture (using spatula) onto floured surface. Gently sift flour over top.

Pat down until about 1-inch thick. Using 2-inch cookie cutter, cut out rolls and gently place in pie tin. Have them touch. Place tins in warm oven and let rise for 40 minutes. Then bake on middle rack at 350 degrees until golden brown.

SEVEN-LAYER SALAD TWICE-BAKED POTATOES Ingredients 1 large head of lettuce 1 bag frozen green peas, thawed without liquid 1 can water chestnuts, chopped 1 bottle bacon bits (optional) ½ cup chopped onions 2 cups mayonnaise 2 hard-boiled eggs 1 cup sugar Directions Tear lettuce into bite-size pieces and place on bottom of large bowl. Sprinkle peas on top of lettuce. Add drained water chestnuts, add onions, and cover ingredients with mayonnaise.

Sprinkle with sugar, add eggs and bacon bits. Do not mix. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Before serving, toss the entire salad and serve immediately.

LEMON CHESS PIE Ingredients 12 Idaho potatoes 1 stick butter, melted Salt and pepper to taste 1/8 tsp garlic powder ½ cup sour cream 1 cup shredded cheese. (Cheddar is good) Directions Bake potatoes. As soon as potatoes can be handled, cut each in half length-wise, leaving half shells in one piece. Scoop out potato, and in bowl, mash coarsely. Add butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder and sour cream and mix in. If mixture is too thick, add little milk.

Spoon into potato shells and top with cheese.

Potatoes may be made in advance and frozen.

When needed, thaw and heat.

Ingredients 3 jumbo eggs 1 cup sugar ¾ cup butter (no substitute) Pinch salt ¼ cup fresh lemon juice, plus little lemon zest (bottled juice, slightly under ½ cup may be used) Uncooked pie shells Directions Whip eggs with fork. Combine all ingredients, mix well by hand and pour into unbaked pie shells. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes or until golden brown.

32 western tidewater living

spotlight on Smithfield

a step back

western tidewater living

33

in time story and photography by Gwen Albers

V

irginia Wade calls historic downtown Smithfield a best-kept secret.

“It’s relaxing, like a day in the country,” said Wade, manager of The Genuine Smithfield Ham Shoppe at 224 Main St. Peggy Taylor couldn’t agree more.

“You feel like you are in a different time,” said Taylor, who visits Smithfield two to three times a month from Chesapeake to shop and have lunch. “It’s a little slower paced.”

Smithfield’s tree-lined Main and Church streets feature antique shops, art galleries, restaurants and specialty gift shops, including The Christmas Store, founded 16 years ago by Jim and Elaine Abicht, who spent years collecting antique Christmas items.

For Jim Abicht, the store is a full-time job. Although he believes it would do better in a less remote area, Abicht wouldn’t trade Smithfield for anything.

“As far as small towns go, this is probably one of the neatest I’ve ever seen,” he said. “It offers so many things you can’t find in a large city.”

And for the Christmas shopper who chooses Smithfield over the mall or Walmart, Abicht can promise one thing.

“There’s less risk of duplication under the Christmas tree,” he said. “We think that we offer a unique product and in a pleasant environment to shop. The town has a bunch of neat shops that makes shopping more personal than the mall.”

That’s something Taylor appreciates.

“The merchants are very friendly and act See SMITHFIELD page 34

Virginia Wade, manager of The Genuine Smithfield Ham Shoppe, shows a Paula Deen product.

34 western tidewater living

Cloud Nine sales associate Monique Martin reaches for a Vera Bradley bag.

SMITHFIELD continued from page 33

like they’re glad that you’re shopping,” she said.

Taylor, a retired X-ray technician, is often joined on her trips to Smithfield by former co-worker Anna Trimble, a nurse from Portsmouth.

Trimble likes getting away from the hustle and bustle of things and enjoying Smithfield’s peaceful atmosphere. Her routine trips to Smithfield include a chicken salad sandwich and she-crab

soup for lunch at Smithfield Gourmet Bakery and stopping at Wharf Hill antiques and Cloud Nine.

At the latter, Pandora fashion jewelry is the biggest seller, according to Cloud Nine sales associate Monique Martin.

“Men come in here with (a photo from a catalog), and women will spend a half hour” looking over the jewelry, Martin said.

She too enjoys what Smithfield has to offer.

“We have good places to eat, a farmers’ market on weekends, and last weekend we had our fall open house,” Martin said.

And Wade, with The Genuine Smithfield Ham Shop, has no problem rattling off what her store offers.

Sliced and spiral Smithfield and Charles Henry Gray hams and gourmet peanuts from See SMITHFIELD page 35

western tidewater living SMITHFIELD continued from page 34

Smithfield Foods’ Peanut Shop, which is supplied with peanuts grown in Southampton and Isle of Wight counties.

“We have hand-cooked hot Southern, wasabi, butter toffee, chocolatecovered, honey-roasted and regular peanut brittle,” Wade said. “Chocolate peanut brittle, chocolate-covered cashews, Cajun cashews, honey-roasted cashews, chocolate-covered almonds and barbecue peanuts.”

The store also offers products from Paula Deen, a restaurateur, author, actress and Emmy award-winning television personality who is also the official spokeswoman for Smithfield Foods.

Newcomer Carla Mingee is pleased about moving her antique business to Smithfield from Phoebus, where five generations of her family were in business.

“I always loved coming here to Smithfield for shopping and the dining experience,” said Mingee, who co-owns Return Engagements with Malcolm Anglin.

The antique shop is located in a Main Street building constructed in 1826. The building is included on the National Registry of Historic Places.

“It’s one of the oldest antique malls in America,” said Anglin, who owns the building once used to store peanuts and then doubling as a doctor’s home and office.

Six weeks after relocating her Jim Abicht — Store owner business, Mingee is pleased with her decision.

“I love Smithfield,” she said. “The people are so hospitable, friendly and outgoing, and they embrace you.”

Mingee believes a visit to Smithfield for holiday shopping is “more soothing” than going to the mall.

“The experience is rewarding to the soul,” she said. “People on the sidewalks embrace each other.”

Smithfield offers smaller crowds and plenty of parking, said Cheryl Whitener, manager for the Smithfield & Isle of Wight Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We have very unique items, special items you can’t find at the mall.”

Not far from the downtown is the Boardwalk Shops at the Smithfield Station — specialty shops along the scenic Pagan River. An authentic boardwalk wraps the entire length of an inn, lodge and restaurant. Stores include Girl This!, Ham Town Books, Nautical Décor, Victoria Rose and Lisa’s Sweet Shoppe. ←

“As far as small towns go, this is probably one of the neatest I’ve ever seen.

It offers so many things you can’t find in a large city.”

35

36 western tidewater living

“In science class, when they needed to display a bug, for instance, they asked me to draw one. But I was on my own; they didn’t know how to guide me.

There were no art teachers, no art classes, so what ability I have is what I was born with”

art overfl George Joyner — Artist

western tidewater living

flowing

37

One-armed artist learned to create his masterpieces from scratch

D

story and photography by Merle Monahan

riving down Mission Church Road past dozens of modern homes with manicured lawns, most people probably do a double take when they see the old building at Mission Church and Camp Farm roads.

Shaped like a mission, or a church, or a general store — all of which it has been used for — this 1920s building is artist George Joyner’s studio. Surrounded by several huge old oak trees, the studio is filled with Joyner’s artwork, which spills into the yard.

“I do whatever I feel like doing at any particular time,” said Joyner as he pointed to a white bearded figure he drew on one of the trees. “I call this my ghost.”

Several feet away, he has painted an American flag that covers both sides and the front of a boat. Nearby is an outdoor mural painted on the sides of his van, while another tree depicts the Keebler cookie ad, with a door at the bottom and two windows. Inside, his studio, the 58-yearold has painted a picture of the KeeSee JOYNER page 38

George Joyner painted this mural at Franklin Bowling Center.

JOYNER continued from page 37

bler ad.

The old building, once known as Frazier Ellis’ store, is owned by John and Millie Gardner and family. Joyner says the Gardners are good friends who’ve helped him tremendously. try to keep the place up,” Joyner said. “I like SpeciaL“IUSage LogoS

it here; I especially like these big old trees.”

On the front porch, he has fashioned and painted a totem pole with an eagle carved on top, refurbished the original door with wooden cutouts of acorns and oak leaves and painted oak leaves and a lizard on pieces of the broken con-

crete porch floor.

One of the first things that catches a visitor’s eye are the beautifully painted windows, both in front and on the sides of the unpainted building.

“People tell me they are awed by the sight of them,” Joyner said.

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39

JOYNER continued from page 38

George Joyner painted a door and windows on this tree, similar to what you might see in a Keebler cookie advertisement.

The talented Sedley mixed-media artist has been drawing since he was 8. He hasn’t had any training, noting his teachers didn’t know how to deal with a kid who could draw.

“In science class, when they needed to display a bug, for instance, they asked me to draw one,” Joyner said. “But I was on my own; they didn’t know how to guide me. There were no art teachers, no art classes, so what ability I have is what I was born with.”

There was a time in 1984 when Joyner thought he had lost his talent. It was when he accidentally lost his arm.

“I had climbed a light pole, touched some live wires and was electrocuted,” Joyner said. “Doctors told my mom that I was dead, and actually, I was.

“I’m sure a lot of people don’t believe this, but I had an ‘out-of-body’ experience,” he continued.

“I could feel myself being propelled through a long tunnel. I could see what was at the end, and I didn’t like it. I was crying. Then someone (he has no doubt it was God) pulled me back.”

Joyner started breathing again, but he lost his left arm up to the elbow and damaged part of his right arm. He had to force himself to draw again.

There is one other thing that he did with little effort.

“I read my Bible and got rid of all my bad habits — I don’t want to end up at the end of that

tunnel,” Joyner said.

Up until then, he worked with his dad as a carpenter. Unable to continue, he spends his days drawing.

“I’ve painted murals on the walls of churches in Sedley, Hunterdale, Windsor, the Franklin bowling alley and in the homes of some of my acquaintances,” Joyner said.

Inside his studio, there are paintings and carvings from floor to ceiling. Paintings from cartoon characters to beautiful young ladies in Victorian attire and carvings of every conceivable kind of animal. He’s also carved a ship, guns, and just about anything he takes a notion to carve.

Joyner says people ask how he can carve with only one hand.

“You just have to be determined,” he said.

As for the authenticity of his work, he gets information from encyclopedias and studies history photographs. Joyner is fascinated with articles from the early 20th century.

“I am lucky to be here,” he said. “I thank God for that, and I am also thankful for my friends.

Billy and Loraine Whitehead and Harvey Hubbard have been especially good to me.”

Joyner is content. A nature lover, he has built himself a little campground in a wooded area next to his studio. It includes a small covered structure with open sides, where he sits to watch the rain. ←

40 western tidewater living

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Presevering Persons church story by Kate Archer photography by Marco Di Florio

a church for all persons A stained-glass window at Persons United Methodist Church

P

ersons United Methodist Church.

Once a hub of Drewryville, where parishioners met for Sunday services and remained into the afternoon for potlucks with fried chicken, open-pit roasted pig, homemade rolls, cakes and pies. The meal catered by neighbors was served outside on a table made from boards.

There were additional gatherings in the church’s lamp-lit sanctuary with members from neighboring Hebron Baptist Church, weddings and funerals.

The congregation was a big part of the community’s history in antebellum Southampton County, including parishioners who fought and died in the Civil War and both World Wars.

Today, Persons United Methodist Church struggles with a membership of fewer than 20. Services are held twice a month, and the Persons Reunion is still the third Sunday of September.

The 172-year-old congregation wonders how much longer the church will be around; it’s very frightening to this devout group of people. To the Rev. Michael Baugham, the church’s far-off future looks grim.

“The hardest part is that it’s located in such an agricultural area and off the beaten path,” said Baugham, who is the church’s pastor. “People are leaving our farms and moving to larger cities for work.”

“The history and family connections throughout the generations here are deeply entwined,” he continued. “It’s a small, close-knit church and commuSee PERSONS page 42

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Entry hall of Persons Church displays a photo of former Methodist bishops and World War II members who served.

PERSONS continued from page 41

nity, and we have faith in the hopes and promises through the life of Christ. It is the spirit of the church and its people who keep us going.”

Marie Beale Turner has been a member of the church for 65 years.

“I’d like to think people would surely move into this area, but people aren’t coming to churches like they used to,” Turner said. “I wouldn’t want to predict where the church will be in 100 years.”

The church formed its congregation in 1838.

The history of the church is undocumented prior to that, but it is rumored there has always been a church of some sort on the grounds.

The first recorded deed to the land was in 1886 from Junious Randolph Person and B.A. James. Hearsay is that it once was sacred Indian land.

Originally a Methodist Episcopal Church, it is believed the Episcopal affiliation was dropped due to the split from the churches in England, Virginia colonization and the Methodist movement sweeping America. Bricks used in the construction of the original church came from Eng-

land, placed into the hulls of ships that had been filled with Virginia tobacco going to Europe.

Born in 1798 in Gloucester County, Joshua Lee was one of the first Methodist ministers of Persons Church. A “Circuit Rider,” he reached tucked-away places on horseback, traveling to 13 churches on his charge.

Lee was one of the first ministers for the Meherrin Circuit and moved to Mississippi in the 1840s. He died in Columbus, Miss., on Christmas Eve 1845 from bilious pleurisy, leaving behind his wife, the former Miss Musgrave of Persons Church, and three small children. He was 47.

The same year of Lee’s death, the Civil War was brewing and many in the congregation were heading off to arms.

Familiar old Southampton County surnames such as Grizzard, Edwards, Person, Harrison, Francis, Westbrook, Turner, Rawlings, Woodard, Copes, Harris, Newton, Bryant, Hart, Musgrave, Gilliam, DeLoatch, Hart, Picot, Harrell, Parker, Cutchin, Britt, Spence, Peete, Cochran, Ivey, Claud, Sykes, Clark, Ricks, Myrick,

Ellis, Panton, Spence, Murfee, Lee, Harrison, Joyner, James and Rawls dominate the historic church rolls.

Tombstones of those buried on the grounds include those who served in many wars as well as children who died due to the high infant mortality period of those times. Some of those buried there are unknown.

Junius Randolph Person, at 28, was one of the original members of The Rough and Ready Guard, which was later known as Company G, 3rd VA Infantry. A first lieutenant, Person was among many who made it to Gettysburg on the third day of battle. He lived until 1908.

Joseph Simmons Gilliam attended Virginia Military Institute in 1863 and five months later enlisted in Jerusalem as a second lieutenant for Company G, 3rd VA Infantry, and served with Person. Gilliam was a commissioner of the revenue for Southampton County until he died in 1913.

Jefferson Jones Woodard enlisted in March 1862 and was a private with Company A, 13th VA Calvary. A very wealthy landowner in See PERSONS page 43

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Parishoners, from left, Jack Miller, his wife, Doris, pastor Michael Baugham and parishoner Mark Person PERSONS continued from page 42

Southampton County, Woodard died in 1907.

Both Gilliam and Woodard were members of the Urquhart-Gillette United Confederate Veterans Camp, and they, along with Person, are buried at Persons Church.

In 1878, the membership at the church had grown to 77. It is said that over half the membership of Persons Church served the South, and some Civil War soldiers buried there were part of Pickett’s Division, Kempers Brigade.

In December 1902, after services, a spark from the wood-burning stove shot through the chimney, landing on the cedar roof. Within minutes, the church was engulfed in flames.

Without water nearby, members watched the church burn, with its beauty and archival records. Collections were immediately taken up within the congregation and community to rebuild, and with the generosity of Jefferson Woodard, a new church was finished by the next year.

In 1914, when World War I hit, Persons Church was not immune. Many locals left their farms for railroad work in larger cities. The

small, yet devout group left behind kept the church going. Many men went off to serve.

By the end of World War I, Persons church had 107 members. There were large gatherings there, including festive tent meetings at the old Musgrave home on Pinopolis Road.

When World War II broke, 18 members of Persons United Methodist Church were listed as service members; many are buried on the grounds.

It is unknown how many pastors have served the church over its years.

A retired teacher, Turner has held almost every office in the church, including treasurer. She has met many pastors and residents through the years.

As a child growing up in Branchville United Methodist, she attended Persons Church with her grandparents when visiting Drewryville.

“I remember my grandmother, Annie Ricks Newton, used to wear white gloves and carried a basket with the communion set to church for services,” Turner said. “I will always remember that basket.”

A familiar face and pillar of wisdom in Drewryville, Turner has taught many during her 42 years as a local educator.

“I would like to see more families come to our church, and we have a new family who has just started coming,” she said. “It’s just wonderful to have little ones again.”

A part-time Bible class teacher for 50 years at Persons United Methodist Church, Turner has donated chandeliers in honor of her late mother-in-law, Gertrude Person Turner, and her grandparents, Joseph and Annie Ricks Newton.

Doris Rawls Miller has been a member of Persons since childhood. She grew up in the church, and has deep ties to every person honored in the sanctuary windows.

“Those windows came here a long time ago in huge crates,” Miller said. “It was a big event when they arrived in the 1950s. People came from all over on dedication day.”

In 2003, Miller wrote a “Centennial of the Sanctuary,” which is filled with photos, memoirs and historical documents relating to the church and its members. The history indicates the lights See PERSONS page 44

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Persons United Methodist Church, also known as “Old Church.”

PERSONS continued from page 43

in the sanctuary over the piano were given in memory of Miller’s mother, Hattie Grizzard Rawls, because she used to play piano for the church. Thelma Allen Harris was the pianist in the 1940s. Barbara Edwards is the current pianist.

The former Dorothy Edwards and Rolo Turner Lassiter were married at Persons United Methodist Church in October 1956.

“It’s a beautiful church,” Dorothy Lassiter said. “I am an Edwards who married into the Lassiters and into the Baptist Church in Boykins.”

The Edwards family has deep ties to Persons Church. Dorothy Lassiter’s parents, Floyd and Lillie Belle Grizzard Edwards, and her five brothers were members. There were 10 children in her family.

The Lassiters sometimes visit Persons United Methodist Church on Family Reunion Day in September.

“We have bumped into people we haven’t

seen in a long time at their gatherings,” Dorothy Lassiter said.

Persons Church gatherings are legendary and a longtime tradition for the church members and residents with ties to the church.

The church’s members are devoted.

“Every time I visit the church, I feel as if I have grown with a renewed Christian faith,” Turner said.

Mark Person, a direct descendant of the family, “is the shining light of this church and congregation,” said Jack Miller.

“He’s the keeper of the church and its history now,” he said. “Mark looks after the church, the members, the cemetery and is always working hard to bring new changes into this old church, keeping up with the times.”

The signs have been modernized and freshly painted with e-mail contacts and an information box for curiosity seekers. The church has a Facebook page and Internet visibility through the website www.UMC.org.

Church members Mary Ann and Rusty Hancock have been the cemetery and groundskeepers for some time.

Frank Lifesay Jr., Rusty Hancock and Jack Miller take turns teaching Sunday school. Elizabeth Cobb and her late husband, Randy, have helped as treasurers.

“Everyone just pitches in,” Person said. “We are blessed with a caring and committed group here.”

“While our resources are limited, we use the gifts that we do have, and with a very loving and open minded congregation, we are willing to do whatever it takes to bring new members into our church,” Baugham added.

Persons’ Christmas services are traditional.

This year’s service will be at 9:45 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 19.

“We wish to have new families join us,” Turner said. “It’s like we’re in our second generation of churchgoers here, and the last generation is now if new people don’t come to join us.” ←

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common ground

coming home for Christmas A

h, there’s nothing quite like it.

It’s driving into the memories as all the old familiar places roll past the windshield and come up to nestle in your heart and say “remember when we … ?” and “there’s where we …” and “over there is the place that… ” They call out like old friends, opening caverns long ago forgotten. They call you home.

The heart beats faster as your destination nears. The pull, like a magnet, intensifies as you draw closer.

It’s driving into a yard that was once your whole world filled with adventures. Your adventures. Of dreaming and daring and discovery. Of scrapes and cuts and bruises. Of inventions and imaginations and possibilities.

It beckoned you out every day, wrapping its arms around you, bidding you into its playground.

It’s stepping through an old threshold and

being enveloped by the aroma of the past. For no scent known to man, though he were to search the world over, can match the simple, intoxicating fragrance of home.

It’s looking into the faces and feeling the arms of those who at one time could solve all problems, knew all answers and were always there. Hands that rocked you to sleep, fixed your wounds, cooked your meals. Eyes that cried when you cried and laughed with you.

A voice that could stop children in their tracks or soothe the worst pain. Though the smiles are not quite as broad, the faces bear a few more crevasses and the step a might slow-

column and photo by Rex Alphin

er, the heart beats larger than ever.

It’s knowing the rooms and the landscape.

Where things once were, are now, and will be, at least in your mind, forever.

Knowing the history behind all the dents, cracks and scratches. There are your brother’s teeth marks, behind there is where you spilled the tea. On that sofa you often fell asleep, and around the corner is the crack in the wall from a wrestling match.

The sun still shines in the window as it always did. That creak in the floor is still there.

The third cabinet door has that old squeak and the mesmerizing aroma of food curls into the living room like always.

No ornate castle can compare. No stately mansion can compete, for these things cannot be purchased. They are simply captured in human hearts, making their owners rich indeed.

Ah, Dorothy was right. There really is no place like home. Especially at Christmas. ←

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