Thursday, May 4, 2023
My first recollections of Alan are from Grand Prairie High School. We were friends but he was the smartest kid in our class. If Mr. Kilgore had to leave his chemistry or physics class, Alan would step in and teach the lesson. Besides being a National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalist, member of the science club, honor graduate, National Honor Society, and Salutatorian, he was in Mu Alpha Theta. An actor no less, Alan stared in
The Senior Play, The Late Christopher Bean. Allan was so smart that I was a little timid around him. After our 50th high school reunion he confessed that he was a little shy around me because I was “popular”.
I am so glad for our renewed acquaintance at the 50th high school reunion because Allan‘s friendship enhanced my life this past 10 years. Our birthday is this month, Allan, May 10, and mine on May 13. We will be 78. I’m still here on this earth trying to figure things out and he’s gone on to be with the Lord in heaven. I’m just a friend but I miss him so much. We were so different yet alike. I’m grateful I knew this man.
In my senior years, I’ve wanted to be a writer, and he was an inspiration and encouraged me to do so. He shared his book, The Running Club, and various poems with me. He was funny, witty, but the depth of his communication was surreal. He wrote a poem about our high school quarterback, which is incredibly insightful. I hope to share it this year at our 60th high school reunion. I will miss him and Betsy as they will not be at this reunion. I’ve slowed up on writing my book as I need another editor. But I will do it. I will do it for me, but I know he would be proud of me for finishing it.
Happy Birthday to us, Alan.
My sadness for you, Betsy, and your family is ever present. Your incredible memory bank of the good like with Alan keeps you smiling I am sure.
