Editor, Gazette-Journal:
As 2024 came to a close, it marked the end of an era with the passing of our beloved family friend Mr. Dennis Patterson. His wife, Mrs. Frances, transitioned as 2024 began. At 99 and 98 years, they were our siblings’ “Virginia Grandparents.” July 1983 was a beginning for our generation on the Middle Peninsula.
For 40 years, these elders served as integral pieces of our Cappahosic extended family. Mrs. Emma and Mr. Clarence Culley Sr. were the first couple who would take us into their home both during the school day and after school. Dannon and Terrence became some of our first childhood friendships that remain intact today.
Mrs. Sadie and Mr. Wray Herring were the first to invite us to their grandson Marcus’s birthday parties and their generosity allowed us to leave with gifts as well! Spending time on Lil’ Acres farm taught us many practical lessons that we pass on to the generation coming after us. Mrs. Frances and Mr. Dennis were the first to give us a prope...