Gerald and I grew up together in Smyrna from 1950 on up.  When I was born, his mom and dad lived in the same house my mom and dad lived in.  His mom was my dad's little sister.  Gerald helped me learn to walk when I was a baby.  I was told he took me by the hand and gave me the confidence to take my first steps.  He was born in May; me in September.  So he was like a big brother to me for the rest of my life.

We were very close as children and I had more fun with him and his brothers and sister than anyone else in the world.  We spent our summers playing outside, camping in a big tent his dad made us, having hotdog roasts, swimming, etc.  In the winter, we had fun in the snow like nobody else could.  We went to school together and to church together, always having fun no matter what we were doing.  We never got tired of each other.  I wished those days were back and I could relive them one more time. 

When we grew up, we all sort of went our separate ways and got on with life.  It's too bad life did that to us.  Gerald was the best to me and I often look back and treasure those memories.  So much has happened and it makes your head spin when you think about it.  I knew Gerald had suffered much tragedy and heartbreak in his life and I was sad for him whenever he crossed my mind.  I only wish I knew his family like I knew him.

The last time I saw him was at a clambake for Simmons Precision.  This was many years ago.  We promised to keep in touch, but we never did and I'm so sorry for that. 

My only hope is that someday we can meet again and go back to relive some of our childhood memories. 

Rest in Peace, Gerald.  I'll always love you and keep you in my mind and heart. 

Patricia (Foster) Law