SONS OF DEWITT COLONY TEXAS
©2000-2023, Wallace L. McKeehan, All Rights Reserved
Lake Weir High Class of 62---Index

No man is an island, entire of itself every man is a piece of the continent,
a part of the main if a clod be washed away by the sea.....
.....any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind
and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls
it tolls for thee---John Donne

IN MEMORY OF

 [This memorial page is incomplete.  Missing biographical information and obituaries of deceased classmates are solicited .  Wayne Baxley ('63, deceased 2017)  prior to his death created an index of memorials to Lake Weir High Sunset Harbor students and faculty on Find A Grave.]

CLASS OF '62  

Ross Alexander passed away 15 July 2007.  Ross was a quiet, but unassuming buddy and friend, especially to Lake Weir High athletes.  He was an avid sports fan, his attendance and enthusiasm was always obvious at LaWeHi sports events.  He married '62 classmate Beverly O'Neal.

Belleview - Roscoe Alexander, 62, went home for his 40th anniversary on July 15, 2007 at Ocala Regional Medical Center. He was born in Elkhart, IN and a longtime resident of this area. He was a retired pressman for the Ocala Star Banner after 19 years. Mr. Alexander served in the United States Coast Guard. He enjoyed his grandkids, fishing, golf, and hunting. Survivors include his daughters, Lezlie Fritts, Ocala, Kimberlie (Tom) LaSenna, Belleview, son Richard (Patty) Alexander, Ocala, 7 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and dog, Gator. Memorial services were held at 11:30 AM, Monday, July 23, 2007 at Wings of Faith Fellowship, 5066 SE 64th Avenue, Ocala with Pastor Johnny Johnson officiating. A gathering of family and friends was held one hour prior to the service. Arrangements under the direction of Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, Belleview. Published in the Ocala Star-Banner from 7/19/2007 - 7/20/2007.  [Picture from 1959 Lake Weir High School annual.  Although a class of '62 mate, Ross officially graduated in '63 according to Don Phillips]

Taps for Ross

The bugle call of taps is a lonely sound.  It is used at funerals and memorial services in the military when it signals lights out.   If you are a young soldier in basic training and hear it played at the end of the day it can stir your emotions.  I was at a memorial service last Monday for an old friend and taps never sounded more beautiful to me than when it was sounded for Ross Alexander.  It certainly started my emotions and brought back a lot of memories.
     Some thirty years ago I was watching a softball game at the Belleview ballpark and talking to Ross.  He was currently unemployed, and I had started my own print shop, and asked if he would like to help me for a few weeks.   The two weeks turned into twelve years.  Most of the time it was just me and Ross working together and I never considered him an employee, but a buddy.  The only time he ever called me boss was when he wanted some time off or to talk about a raise.
     We did some fishing together and played a little golf.  We both grew up in South Marion and attended old Lake Weir High School, and we traveled many of the same roads, and had many of the same friends.  Ross was born in Indiana and grew up in Ocklawaha.  After serving in the US Coast Guard he married a pretty Belleview girl, Beverly O'Neal, who preceded him in death a few years ago.  They both left us way too soon.
     The last nineteen years Ross worked for the Ocala Star Banner as a pressman and occasionally would stop by and tell me a hunting story.  I recall the time he and Perry Jacobs were in the bee business.  Ross bought a truck and they would haul their bees back and forth on the weekends.  On Mondays he always had a bee story to tell.
     He camped near Eaton's Creek in the Ocala National Forest with Bernard McNely in hunting season and those good times he also told me about.  The minister said that God wants his good and faithful children.  I would push my way to the front of the line to witness that Ross Alexander was a good man.
[An article by Peek Hames in his column, Times Are A Changing  in the Voice of South Marion, 26 Jul, 2007, pg. 15]

Ross (arrow at left in the celebrating fans after the last minute win over Tavares in '62) was a quiet, but unassuming friend and Lake Weir High sports fan, his attendance and enthusiasm was always obvious at LaWeHi sports events.  According to his obituary in the Ocala Star Banner, Ross was born in Elkhart, IN and remained in the Marion County area after a stint in the US Coast Guard after graduation.  He was a pressman for the Ocala Star Banner for 19 years.)

[Billy Clapp (24), Wallace McKeehan (being hugged), Glenn Herbert (over WM's left shoulder), Manny Rodriquez, Jimmy Phillips (reaching out), Ralph Nichols (behind Jimmy), Mike Welch (right)]

Earnest Bowser

Ocala Star-Banner (FL) - October 24, 2002
MOSS BLUFF -- Ernest R. Bowser, 58, an automotive mechanic, died Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2002, at Health Central Hospital in Ocoee.  A native of Miami, he was a longtime resident of Lake and Marion Counties. He was Christian. Survivors include his wife, Lois Bowser, Moss Bluff; daughters, Sandra Meyerhoff, British Columbia and Kelli Stutson, Moss Bluff; sons, Michael Bowser, Gaithersburg, Md., Kevin McLaughlin and Keith McLaughlin, both of Melbourne; sisters, Janice Bowser and Linda Davis, both of Ocala; and five grandchildren.  Burial:  Moss Bluff Cemetery, Moss Bluff, Marion County, Florida, USA

Sandra Beck (Parrish), longtime resident of Winter Garden, FL passed away July 21, 2013, having been preceded in death by her husband, Herschel Hooper Parrish, Jr. She previously lived in Gainesville, Belleview and St. Augustine, FL. Sandra was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her children, Stephanie Pelt (Vann) of Bremen, GA, Todd Parrish of Rockledge, FL, and Shannen Mohr (Frank) of Tallahassee, FL. Her adored grandchildren are Parrish and Patrick Pelt and Annsley and Amelia Mohr. Barbara Smith, St. Augustine, FL, and Ellie Marshall, Atlanta, GA are her surviving sisters. Although she battled Carcinoid Syndrome cancer for more than 15 years, she brightly managed to live her life to the fullest with church volunteering, gardening, travels and fun with friends and family. Her most treasured work was teaching special needs students. Sandra is best remembered for her beautiful, constant smile and for carrying out her motto, "Lord, what can I do in your name for someone else today?" Visitation will be Wednesday, July 24, 5-8pm at Woodlawn Funeral Home, Gotha, FL, and the service to celebrate her life on Thursday, July 25, 10am at First Baptist Church of Winter Garden. Memorial gifts can be made to FBC Building Fund, 125 E. Plant Street, Winter Garden, FL, 34787.

Gayle Blalock (Shamburger). Gayle Aline Shamburger age 77 a homemaker of Magnolia, AL died September 20, 2021 at her home. She was born June 3, 1944 in Miami, FL to Horace Dove and Aline Blalock. She was a member of Magnolia United Methodist Church. She is survived by her husband, Robert Fontaine Shamburger; three sons, Barry Fernandez, Jeff Fernandez, and Thomas Wade; brother, Tony Blalock; twelve grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

"Classmates Eloise Beck, Rachel Ruis and Bunny Monroe have stayed in touch with Gayle over the years and she expressed her love for them.  Gayle gave close friends she spoke with as late as night before her passing no inkling of illness and left them in shock."--Classmate Eloise Beck Marshall.

Myrna Chapin (Watson)
MOULTRIE.  Myrna Chapin Watson, 68, of Moultrie, died Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012, at her home.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 16, at Riverside Holiness Church with the Rev. Mark Jordan and the Rev. Chuck Akers officiating. Interment will follow in Cobb Suncrest Memorial Gardens, with the Rev. Archie Morgan officiating. Casketbearers will be Brandon Jordan, Landon Watson, David Watson, Tommy Shrouder, Jared Young and Jonathan Howell.
Born Jan. 30, 1944, in Norfolk, Va., she was the daughter of Moody Eugene Chapin and Hilma Redding Chapin. She was a cafeteria worker at Okapilco Elementary School and was a member of Riverside Holiness Church.  Survivors, in addition to her parents of Ocala, Fla., include her husband, Billy Joe Watson of Moultrie; two sons, Barry Watson and wife Alesia of Moultrie and David Watson and wife Dianna of Mobile, Ala.; one sister, Glenda Hoskins and husband Terry of Ocala, Fla.; one brother, Steve Chapin and wife Brenda of Crystal River, Fla.; and four grandchildren, Kristen Globerman and husband Mark, Brandon Watson, Landon Watson and Kayla Watson.  Cobb Funeral Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements.

Myrna was salutatorian in the class of '62  and became a lifelong partner with her spouse in dedication to church work and the spiritual welfare of many.  Her modest response to the poll of graduates for short resumes for the 16th class reunion in 1978 was "married Bill one month after graduation and moved to Georgia. Been there ever since. Haven't acconplished anything earth-shattering. Just devoted to be a good housewlfe and mother which I enjoy."--EW 08-15-12

Myrna passed away yesterday afternoon, peacefully in her home.  She went to a place where she will have no more pain and suffering from disease that robbed her body of life.  She had been home for the past few weeks in the loving care of her family.  She will be laid to rest Thursday afternoon in Moultrie. I will forever admire her for her courage and positive attitude and never complaining. What a battle she did fight!!!!!  She is truly my hero, the wind beneath my wings.----Classmate and lifelong friend Rachel Wise (Ruis) 08-15-12 

William (Billy) Clapp hung up his basketball jersey number 24 for good on 5 January 2009 due to a heart attack.  Billy was a great good buddy to his teammates particularly in basketball and baseball, a steady and reliable team player, and one of the gang on all excursions related to the sports like turning up the radio full blast when a good song of the '60s came on, stopping and doing the Twist in front of the headlights on the highway or hitting an all you can eat BBQ chicken joint on the return from a good game.  One time recalled after return from a great tournament win, the night went on for hours at the place, first the cook, the wait staff, then the manager appear to look the group over that was impinging on their profit margin.  Yes, the major offender was ole Billy, just pure BBQ chicken, no sides, fries, cole slaw, baked potato, that would reduce the consumption of the main offer.   The days are a source of fond memories especially the final senior year of 1962.  Bubba Rayburn Steele recalls last seeing Billy in 1967 in a spiffy pinstripe suit in his position as a beverage distributor in Ocala.  E.W.

From Big Dog (Don) Phillips:  My introduction to Billy Clapp was back when Bill and I were in the 6th grade. My dad, Curly Phillips and Paul Schmid and Bill Stormant started a Wiersdale Little League baseball team. Our rivals were Belleview, Ft. McCoy, Ocklawaha, Center Hill and a couple other teams. The first game was with Belleview at the ole Weirsdale Elementary School field. At our age, the baseball field seemed to go for miles in left, right and center fields. I was the pitcher and Billy was the lead off hitter for Belleview. Billy was a left handed hitter and put the first official pitch in my baseball career so far over our right fielder's head I am in doubt we ever saw the kid again, let alone found the baseball. The ball still could be somewhere down Hwy 301 towards Leesburg. I respected the guy ever since and grew to love him as a sports buddy through 6 more years of school on ole Lake Weir.

We played Umatilla in the last football game our senior year. Clapp always talked about what a better receiver he could have been than an offensive tackle. Every day at practice he would beg Coach Pfeil to switch places with Paul Martin our offensive end. He argued he knew he had great "hands" equal to Paul and could make Phillips a better passing Quarterback. Each day at practice ole Billy convinced me to throw a few passes in view of the Coach to show how good he really was. We all razzed him saying since his blocking skills were so poor, how could his receiving skills be better. Ole Billy was relentless. Day in and day out we listened to his descriptions of how great was his potential as a receiver. In the Umatilla game of our senior year together with just a few minutes left to play, with a 1st and 10, I convinced Paul to switch positions with Billy. I told Billy to run an out pattern and I would throw him the ball. Coach Pfeil saw the misalignment immediately and demanded to abort from the sidelines. However, we were able to get the ball snapped, Billy ran 7 yards out, I threw what probably was the most perfect pass in my career, hit Billy right in the midsection between both hands, and, yes, it bounced off him like a rubber chicken. Back at the next huddle Billy says, "Gunner, it wasn't me that dropped that pass, it was your fault, you put too much spin on the ball". So ended Billy's short receiving career and I'm sure my own had there been any more games to play when we faced Coach Pfeil back at the bench. Big Dog (Don) Phillips '62

Additional pictures of Billy here, here and here.

Full obituary in the Gainesville Sun, 16 Jan 2009:

William Franklin Clapp Jr., 63, of Murphy, NC, passed away Monday, January 05, 2009. Born in Greensboro, NC, Bill grew-up in Belleview, FL, and graduated from Lake Weir High School in 1962. He later resided in Gainesville, FL, and then retired to the Smoky Mountains. He is preceded in death by his parents William "Frank" and Ruby Clapp. Bill was a lifelong Florida Gator fan, a longtime football coach for the Gainesville Boy's Club, and a member of the Moose Lodge in Belleview. Bill is survived by his sister, Jackie Anderson (Paul) Belleview, five children, Diedra Bray (Norman) Belleview; Michael Clapp (Mindy) Gainesville; Damon Clapp (Mimi) Virginia Beach, VA; Shana Miller (Mark) Live Oak, FL; and David Clapp (Lisa) Cincinnati, OH, and fifteen grandchildren. We wish him peace and a 50 yard line seat at Florida field. A memorial will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2009, 11:00 a.m. at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Ocala. Following the service, a fellowship luncheon will be held at the Belleview Historical Society Building off Stetson Road in Belleview. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to your local animal shelter.

Barbara Hodges (Snyder)  October 20, 1944 - January 4, 2020

Barbara (Bobbie) Ann Synder of Summerfield, age 75, passed unexpectedly Saturday, January 4th, 2020 at Ocala Health. She was surrounded by many family members and comforting nursing staff.
Barbara was born in Ocala, Fl., graduating from Lake Weir High School in 1962, and stayed local to the Sunset Harbor area the rest of her adult life. After years of work in the family business, Snyder's Egg Ranch, and being a licensed taxidermist, Barbara retired from Lake Weir Middle School. An avid outdoors woman, she loved to hunt, fish and practice archery with her family. She was an active member of the Gulf Hammock Hunt Club since the early 1970's and participated in many Archery Jamboree events through the Florida Bowhunters Council. A true Matriarch, she will be remembered for her love of her husband, family and Boston Terrier "Roo." She is survived by her husband David Synder of 54 years, Daughter Rainie Meyers with husband Ryon and their son Benjamin, Daughter Wendy Monroe with husband Robert and their children Kyle Parrish with wife Holly and their children Christopher and Karolee, Cameron Parrish with wife Leah, Dedra Richardson with husband Jake and their children Keegan and Karli, Kirsten Dreadin with her husband Justin and their children Ainsley and Trenton, Son David Chad Snyder, Sister Lucille Buhl with husband Robert, Sister Martha Ball with husband Orbin and many nieces and nephews. Preceding her to Heaven, Parents Mr. & Mrs. James A Hodges and Brother James A Hodges Jr.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, January 10th, 2020 at 3pm at Village View Community Church, 8585 SE 147th Place, Summerfield FL 34491. After the service the family asks that you please come by their home for food, fellowship and sharing together at 10347 SE 157th Lane, Summerfield FL 34491.  [From an obituary]

Classmate of '62 Brian Howland passed away March 30, 2014. Brian was a respected journalist and news editor working in Tallahassee, Fort Lauderdale and the Denver area. He enjoyed best investigative reporting. He was known for feature articles for the Orlando Sentinel that uncovered Disney Corporations secret accumulation of tracts of central Florida swamp land at bargain prices under the name of numerous corporations to avoid an explosion of land speculation surrounding the planned amusement city. For a time, Brian was a pilot and flight instructor in Ocala. He spent his most recent years in the DC area of Maryland. Brian's younger brother, Kim, related that Brian reminisced about Lake Weir High School days as the best part of his life. Brian is survived by his daughter Tress Dameron and her three children from Appalachicola, a son Hap Howland of Mendin, Missouri, a sister Pam Howland of Venice, Florida, and brother Kim of Sarasota, Florida.  [By E.W, 4/13/14]

 Perry Jacobs, Class of '62, passed away Thursday of heart failure.  Perry and wife Beverly McNely who passed away in in 2004 were both classmates and friends (both voted Most Friendliest Class of '62), and respected by all.  Perry was a football buddy, from a family of dedicated Marion County citrus and commodity farmers and beekeepers.  Another toll of the bell.   Please send your memories of interactions and experiences with Perry.

Obituary Bristol Herald-Courier 29 May 2010
Perry Lee Jacobs, age 65, passed away Thursday, May 27, 2010 at Wellmont Bristol Regional Medical Center. He was a native of Weirsdale, Fla., and had made his home for the past five years in Bristol. He was the son of Frances Jacobs-Branham and the late Clinton Jacobs. He also was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Beverly Jacobs. After retiring from the University of Florida Agriculture Extension Service, he became the co-owner of PJ and Tiny's Country Store in Bristol Virginia. He was of the Baptist faith. Survivors include his mother, Frances Jacobs-Branham; three children: Rusty Jacobs and wife, Mary, of Belleview, Fla., Sherri Philips and husband, Mark, of Bristol Virginia, and Clinton Eric Jacobs and wife, Judith, of Bristol Virginia; three brothers, Glenn Jacobs of Valdosta, Ga.; Harris Jacobs of Mount Dora, Fla., and Jimmy Jacobs of Sebring, Fla.; nine grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m., Sunday, May 30, 2010, at Akard Funeral Home. The funeral service and burial will be conducted Tuesday, June 1, 2010 in Belleview. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Lake County Master Gardners, 1951 Woodlea Rd., Tavares, FL 32778. Email condolences may be sent to the family at akardfh@akardfuneralhome.com Akard Funeral Home, 1912 W. State St., Bristol, TN (423) 989-4800 is serving the family of Mr. Jacobs.

"I remember Perry as unassuming, quiet and reserved, but steady as a rock and a true friend, a Key Club and Boys State pal.  He had a great sense of humor as you can see from his entry to me in my '62 LaWeHi annual.  It was more fun than work being together with Perry and other buddies working for his old man firing smudge pots when a freeze threatened or handling mile long irrigation pipes during a drought.   Messing with those bees I never got used to, extracting and bottling the honey in ag class was more my line of expertise.  Rest in peace, ole Buddy, we are right behind."  EW

"I knew Perry from the time our family moved into the Wiersdale area in 1954 in the third grade. Perry and I were as close as area buddies could be up to the 10th grade when our boyhood relationship was broken up by a young lady named Beverly McNely. That was an amazing beginning of true teenage love that lasted for life. From what I recall, Perry spent every spare moment with Beverly after that. Perry was a hard worker and loyal member of his family. His dad Clint kept him busy with chores. Between work and Beverly, Perry very seldom cut loose to roam the Lake Weir area, swimming in the lake, river and springs, fishing, frog gigging and all the other things us boys loved growing up in Central Florida. Perry was fascinated by bees and had hives at his house when he was a boy. He was cheerful and very determined to succeed in everything he did. I loved going over to visit him and the Jacobs down that old sand road just toward Weirsdale from the Ocklawaha River. The road was so sandy the school bus would not go down it and Perry had to meet it on the main road.  Their place was just up the river from the turnbridge that my mom operated for many years and where we lived across from Nelson's Fish Camp run by Jimmy Hunt's dad, Buck Hunt.

If one needs a prototype for what we call real Florida Crackers, the Jacobs would be it. They took care of an orange grove and lived from a garden and had chickens and hogs and were humble quite self-sufficient people. One thing I remember in overnighters or wherever else he was, Perry always had to have a big cookie and a glass of milk before he would retire for the night. I wonder if that persisted through his later years. He loved good home cooking and to eat. I loved visiting Perry because his mother put on a big meal every night even for the lowliest guest like a buddy of Perry's.

I remember Perry as a strong tough guy, but gentle and happy all the time. I tried once to whip his ass over some boyhood disagreement and got my butt beat. It was a friendly half-kidding fight as they were in those days. After the fight we were the best of buddies. Seems like Perry's dad may have been an old Vet. He never talked much except for kidding us boys about how useless we were. It was always in a kidding way to try to motivate us I believe. The Jacobs were to us a happy family and I loved to visit them as a guest of Perry's. Rest in peace ole buddy." Real Bubba RS.

"Seems like Perry and I were friends for a long, long time. From elementary school, through high school and beyond. Perry gave me my first football injury. While waiting for the bus after school in Weirsdale Elementary school days, us boys always played toss up and tackle football. On one occasion I happened to catch the football did a run with it. Perry grabbed me and I tried to convince him I had tossed the ball, but he refused to believe me and took me to the ground, planting his knee into my calf as we hit the ground. It so happened that I went home with Perry that day to spend the night. It wasn't long till my calf turned black and blue and Mr. Jacobs took me home to my parents. It got worse the next day so Mom and Dad took me to Dr. Beneveld's in Leesburg who discovered I had a serious blood clot in my leg. The doctor prescribed rest for a week. I don't know how Perry managed it, but he came by the house every day from school to visit me. That's when I knew I had a special friend.

Perry and Beverly arranged my first date with Eloise Beck and we double dated with Perry and Beverly. I remember how much fun we had that night just spending time with Perry and Beverly. Perry laughed, Beverly laughed and it was infectious causing Eloise and I to laugh a lot the whole time. Perry and Beverly were always happy and especially Perry who usually has smile on his face. If you were feeling bad about school, a grade, girlfriend, or anything, all you needed was two or three minutes around Perry and he made you feel better. You could tell that Perry and Beverly were meant to be together.

As kids, everyone loved to spend time at the Jacob's house because it was a place of fun when we were there. Mrs. Jacobs was a great cook, and just about everything we ate came out of their garden. She was always so kind to us and just let us be boys. Mr. Jacobs hardly spoke above a whisper, but I always listened to his every word. Most of all it was just great spending time with Perry. His personality, his friendly manner and that laugh. Nobody could laugh like Perry and I don't believe anyone enjoyed life any more than he did. I will certainly miss his laugh and joyful nature, but I will miss Perry Lee Jacobs even more. You were a great, great friend." Big Dog P.

Beverly McNely (Jacobs) passed away on April 25, 2004.

Beverly succumbed after a long and heroic bout with cancer.   She married Perry Jacobs, a self named "Jack of All Trades and Master of None," a Lake Weir High '62 classmate soon after graduation.  Both were voted individually Friendliest in the Class of '62 Favorites.  In the early years of their over forty one years of marriage, the family traveled around some including places like South Carolina, Ohio and New York while Perry was in the drafting business.  They were in retail sales for a few years.  They eventually settled in the Wiersdale area.  Beverly became a career hair dresser after their third child was born and was a familiar face at the Smart Set Beauty Shop in Belleview.  They have children Rusty, Sherri and Eric.  Beverly was fortunate to attend the 2004 Cracker Barrel reunion which all agreed raised her spirits and those of her classmates.   A memorial service in which the class was well represented by classmates and flowers showing the ole yellow and blue colors was held at the Weirsdale Baptist Church Wednesday, April 28. [Picture from 1962 Lake Weir High School annual]

Arthur Michnowicz. "Our friend and '62 classmate, Arthur, passed away on September 26 after a month long illness. His passing was attributed to Covid 19 complicated by pneumonia and heart issues. Arthur is survived by his sister, Patty M. Inman; two sons, Chris and Marcus. He dearly loved his two granddaughters and was brought to tears in describing his joy in recently holding his new grandson. Arthur derived solace in the life of solitude he lived with his beloved cat and dog on his acreage on Bob Thomas Road in Jackson. The property was lovely with wonderful massive trees and open land for his garden and for wildlife to feed. He spent many hours restoring his old car which was almost completed. He made great friends with the fellows down at Mark's Automotive who allowed him to use their facilities. (They called and also sent a lovely written message to Patty.) His other great joy was his garden and I benefited the summer before Covid with his watermelon, squash, tomatoes, and other such goodies. Arthur could recall happenings from our high school days with great clarity - he actually kept spirit notes I would throw in his, and others', lockers on game day, (he paid me the compliment of saying he felt I was his personal cheerleader), football plays, football drills, the fire which took their home, etc. He did not tolerate those he considered fools nor give people much of a second chance. But he loved big also - certainly his parents (especially his mother whom he lived with for many years until her death), his grandchildren and Patty. Special recognition must go to Rayburn who took time to talk with him every day - how those phone friendships livened up his life! We all will miss his fabulous giggle/laugh - no one could do it better!"---Personal obituary from email by Eloise (Ellie) Beck Marshall, classmate 1962 and neighbor 2021 outside Atlanta, GA.

"He was always Art Mic to me and was so sorry to hear of his passing.. As all you guys know he was our punter and a starting D back..In his playing days Art was always counted on to perform his responsibilities on the field and he did so and we were happy with his performances....Fortunately I was able to contact him after all these years by phone and yes we reminisced about our football days at LWHS with many laughs, but one wasn't the night that he was in the front seat of Grumpys [sic Julian (Grumpy) Chapin '59] car when the drunk hit them head on and Arts knee was injured and believe he missed the next two games due to the injury...As one of his coaches I have many memories of Art and my condolences to his sister and his boys and again Ellie [sic Eloise Beck Marshall '62] thank you for keeping all of us up to date with Art and his family"-- From email comments from Coach Ned Biddix 2021 

"Arthur was a former Marine and Vietnam Vet. He preferred to be called Cowboy."--Classmate '62 Rayburn Steele

Beverly O'Neal (Alexander), 57, Belleview, died June 8, 2002, at Munroe Regional Medical Center, Ocala, FL. She was a native and lifetime resident of Ocala (Belleview), Florida.  Mrs. Alexander was a Courier for Quest Diagnostics, Ocala, Florida; and a member of the First Baptist Church of Belleview.  Survivors include her husband Roscoe D. Alexander Jr., Belleview, FL; two daughters Lezlie L. Fritts, Ocala, FL and Kimberlie L. LaSenna, Ocala, FL; a son Richard D. Alexander, Summerfield, FL; sister Joyce O'Neal McNely, Ocala, FL; four grandsons; two great grandsons; previously deceased by brother Lenord Donald O'Neal.
[Picture from 1959 Lake Weir High School annual]

Bonnie Catherine Wallace (Greco)
(Bonnie was a classmate who moved away prior to graduation in '62)

Obituary from the Loveland Colorado Reporter-Herald (7-27-2010):   On July 25, 2010, Bonnie Catherine Greco peacefully passed from this world into God’s arms in Heaven following a brief struggle with brain cancer. She was born in Rilton, Pa., to Elva Wallace and lived in the south prior to making Colorado her home in 1975. Whether you knew her as “Bonnie” or “Cathy,” you know that she knew no strangers. In every aspect of her life, she showed love and compassion to others and was likewise adored as a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, daughter, aunt, mother-in-law, friend and caregiver. Her hobbies and interests included spending time with family, baking, cooking, sewing, arts and crafts, reading and gardening. She was an avid Rockies fan and even followed them throughout her illness. She was an excellent artist and has the honor of having one of her pieces on display at the Smithsonian Art Institute. She completed nursing school later in life and was passionate about her work and the patients she cared for. She is survived by her husband, Ron; children (and spouses), Curtis (Amy), Bonnie (Steve), Mike (Sherri), Matt (Lisa), Vicky (Joe), Chris (Eve), Valerie (Mark), Glen (Mischelle), Mary, Donna, Steve and Bruce (Angie); 34 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and two on the way; her mother, Elva; brother, John; sisters, Peggy, Jackie, Debbie, Tammy, Bobbie and Lana.

She was preceded in death by her son John in 2007. All her loved ones will dearly miss her and keep her close to their hearts. Her legacy will live on through the multitude of lives she touched. Celebration of life services will take place on Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Fort Collins at 11 a.m. Following the burial at Grandview Cemetery, a reception will be held at the church. At the family’s request, please consider making a contribution in her memory to University of Colorado Foundation for Glioblastoma Multiforme brain tumor research, in lieu of flowers. Checks should be made payable to University of Colorado Foundation and can be mailed to 7548 County Road 100, Wellington, CO 80549 (c/o Bonnie VerHow).

STEAMBOAT SCALES (LaWeHi '63) (standing left) passed away at his home in Weirsdale 23 March 2005 after a valiant struggle with melanoma diagnosed Nov. 2004.  A memorial gathering was held at the Scales home on Lake Weir on April 1 [Photo: Returning Letterman '62 Baseball]

Earl Lytle “Steamboat” Scales was a bonded buddy to all LaWeHi athletes and a little brother to those in the classes of ’59-’62, competing in varsity football and basketball as a sophomore and varsity baseball as a freshman.  Our ole buddy and classmate who was known affectionately as just Boat Scales was born and raised in Weirsdale, MarionCo, Florida descending from a long line of pioneers of the area’s citrus industry.  The nickname Steamboat came from the nurses who remarked to his parents in the hospital where he was born “Here’s your little Steamboat” referring to his huffing and puffing just after birth.  His middle name came from his mom Florence Lytle's maiden name, Ms. Scales is still well and driving at age 86.  Many of us will never forget her graciousness when were invited over to the homeplace on the lake.  Yes, many from the area in their youth remember Boat's granpa ole Doc Lytle, who loved kids and was always good for a monetary gift sufficient to buy a Coke or so.  Doc Lytle and Boat were best buddies for many years.

After graduation in ’63, Boat moved north and attended the University of Florida, Gainesville, played some football and received degrees in agricultural economics and law. He returned to MarionCo where he continued the family tradition and businesses of his father Key Scales II, a leader and spokesman for the Florida citrus industry who was credited with contributing to maintenance of uncompromising quality in the industry.  Boat was a partner in G &S Packing, Inc. in Weirsdale and the family-owned Key Scales Ford car dealership in Leesburg. 

Boat met his lifelong companion, Leslie, at the age of 12 during family vacations on the east coast at which time they were immediately good buddies, but didn’t formalize a partnership until 1967 when they were married.  Helping Leslie run for the school board stimulated an interest in politics.  He was active in the Democratic Party and became well known in local political circles.  He served as Chair of the MarionCo Democratic Executive Committee and state Democratic Party treasurer.  He is credited with helping unify the local party and caused an increase in membership.  Boat also served as Chairman of the MarionCo planning commission and involved in several regional environmental concerns particularly for Lake Weir, he was a founding member of Save Lake Weir. 

Boat was known for his concern for people, equal opportunities and fairness.  He campaigned actively and was treasurer for the Kerry-Edwards Florida campaign.  Scott Maddox, chairman of the Florida Democratic Party said “The FDP will forever be grateful for his service and for his friendship.”  It was his last political campaign for soon after he learned of his illness and his final struggle began.  He was quoted in the Ocala Star Banner article of Nov. 4 just after the Kerry-Edwards concession: 

"That's a shame," Scales said when Kerry conceded the election, after deciding that Bush's lead in Ohio was insurmountable. Scales' disappointment was tinged with sarcasm.  "I'm bitter," Scales said. "I'm well-off (financially) and now George W. will give me a lot of tax breaks, so I guess I will spend it on my boat and travel.” 

This author had the privilege of meeting ole Boat briefly in his office in April 2004 at G&S for the first and last time since graduation in 1962 while on a nostalgia trip through the ole Lake Weir and Ocklawaha area.   Ironically, we talked of what we would do as we wind down our focused work like boating, travel, outdoor life and trout fishing in Colorado.

 Politics aside, ole Boat’s first love was citrus, “being out in the groves and smelling the blossoms” according to wife Leslie, and the lake on whose shores he was born and raised.  Like his father before him, he was involved intensely in the citrus industry and its advocacy through service on numerous statewide committees.  The passing of Boat represents the passing of an era that began in the mid-1850’s when the Lytles planted the first citrus trees in the region.  Boat and his office in the historic Weirsdale G&S buildings were a landmark and dear symbol of the industry for whom many of us worked at least part-time for spending money, unbanking little trees in the spring, irrigating the groves, getting a day or two out of school to get the smudge pots out when frost threatened, getting out the beehives in spring, harvesting the clear honey and working on the packing line over Christmas holidays. 

Boat served also on the board of directors of the Central Florida Symphony Orchestra and was a member of the Metropolitan Ocala Rotary, the Weirsdale Presbyterian Church and the Florida and Marion County Bar. He also served in the Naval Reserve.  He leaves besides his mom and wife Leslie, a son Earl Lytle “Bubba” Scales Jr. and a daughter Erin, brothers Key "Sonny" Scales III and George Scales and grandson Key Alastair Scales.  He was preceded in death by his father Key Scales II, and a brother John (LaWeHi Class of ’60) who also was our not forgotten buddy, teammate and classmate.

The family has requested donations be made in ole Boat’s memory to the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa.

ODE TO BOAT
Weep not for me
I am in the warmth of Lake Weir spring,
Fragrance of the blossoms orange,
The buzz of bees
The scream of gulls,
Quack of ducks to lake returned.
Muffled purr of distal boats,
Clanging of the packing line,
Oils of citrus from heated peels and seeds.
As I am, so you shall be. [E.W.]

[Photo:  Boat & Coach Jim Pfiel, annual '63]

FRANK SMITH (LaWeHi '61), a real Florida cracker (not the redneck, midnight cowboy kind) bit the dust, turned in his hat, boots and whip on 3 August 2023. He was not only one of the last authentic Lake Weir graduate crackers who cracked a whip over a herd, but the last of the local "Buck" Smith dynasty of Summerfield. Unlike his brothers Perry, Jerry and Juddy (all Lake Weir graduates), Frank never went "white collar" and never left the ancestral Smith ranch/farm in Summerfield, FL.

Induction into Marion County Agricultural Hall of Fame 2014 (Video).
Read about Frank here, Perry '57 here, Jerry '58 here, Juddy '64 here.
Obituary here.
Read about Florida Crackers here.

FACULTY

Miss Bea Atkinson Succumbs at Age 74

Social studies teacher known to all as simply Miss Bea died on December 31, 2002.  She was an uncompromising teacher of old and new related to government and politics including interest in local student council affairs and procedures as a learning process.  She once compared a student council president to Harry Truman because of his use of a couple of swear words in a speech.  Miss Bea was born in Summerfield and was also a psychology professor at Central Florida Community College.  She was a graduate of Stetson University and the University of Florida.  She remained in the Lake Weir area in retirement.  She was an influential teacher to many on the key issues facing high schoolers in this Cold War and impending Viet Nam War period of history.  Students remember her for her ability to rationally and unemotionally dissect the philosophies of communism, capitalism and democracy and predictions for their success in the real world in terms that they could understand.  Her predictions and reasons for failure of communistic systems turned out to be true.

Librarian Ms. Julia Yancey Dowdy Hogenboom Passes at Age 102

Miss Dowdy as she was known to Lake Weir High students was the epitomy of the professional stern, tolerant and helpful librarian.  Don Phillips speaking for her class of '62 students remarked "she genuinely cared for all of her students and would graciously assist with any of our youthful concerns. I can hear her now saying, 'Quiet now students, this is a library.'"  According to her obituary in the Ocala Star Banner, Ms. Dowdy was born Julia Anna Yancey, February 16th in 1906, first married to William Dowdy (1948-1956) and second to Reverend Joshua M. Hogenboom (1977-1994). She had a great love for singing, especially hymns, that she continued to share with others throughout her life. After attaining her teaching degree from North Carolina State Teachers College she spent the first twelve years of her career at Bryan College in Tennessee. She served twenty nine years in the Marion County school district.  [Picture left from the 1962 LaWeHi annual; right on her 101 birthday party]

Mr. Kearsley Passes Away at Age 81 

Donald J. Kearsley, Assistant Principal and Guidance Counselor, passed away on Friday, Nov. 8, 2002.  He was a resident of Weirsdale, a native of Ohio,  and moved to Marion County from Wyoming in 1952.  He was a Navy veteran and attended UCLA, U. of Wyoming, Cornell and the U. of Arizona.  At retirement he was Federal Programs Director for the Marion County School Board.  As a straight-shooting, stern,  but caring counselor and teacher, Mr. Kearsley touched the lives of many in ways that both they and he had long forgotten.  However, burned on the memories of many are recollection of an encounter that now with pride they relate how a stern nudge and some caring, sometimes unwanted, advice at the moment triggered them in a positive direction for the long term.

"Once a teacher unjustifiably tried to humiliate me. Mr. Kearsley found out about the incident and took the teacher to task.  I have a deep respect for Mr. Kearsley because he stood up for what was right."---Former student class of '61

"Mr. Kearsley convinced me and gave me the confidence that with persistence and hardwork a boy from modest itinerant background, means and a central Florida rural school could compete with the best at UF.  He contended that money was not the limit and pointed out where there was will there was a way to obtain financial assistance."---Former student class of '62

"I was sent to him for being disrespectful to a young new teacher, I expected to be highly reprimanded.  He suggested I was wrong, that I apologize, but only if I really meant it, took a long time to explain to me why I was wrong, to teach me a lesson in sincerity, used the incident to try to make me a better person."---Former student, '62

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