“Wall of Fame” At The Courtyard Inducts Four “Hometown Heroes”

An elder care facility can be a sad, discouraging place. It usually is a place of refuge and care for people in the last phase of life. It is often a place ravaged with pain and suffering as people struggle with life threatening maladies.
But there is another side to that gloomy picture. Within most facilities there is a social network of sharing and caring. The staff works hard to make the experience as pleasant and concern free as possible. Activities are scheduled each day to fill what would otherwise be long, lonely hours of despair. The clients often develop meaningful friendships with staff and co-clients.
That was the feeling I had as I left the Courtyard facility located a few miles east of Marianna. I was there for the induction ceremony of four clients who are being recognized for their lifetime accomplishments and services. They are deemed to be "Hometown Heroes", and large, attractive picture plaques are presented to be hung permanently in the main hallway of the facility.
This year’s inductees were Eddie Everett, who was recognized for his distinguished military service, which included being awarded the Bronze Star. Jean Morehouse was honored for her military career and volunteerism, including being a Jackson Hospital "pink lady" for many years, working with Habitat For Humanity, and Partners For Pets. Alton Parris was recognized for his academic achievements and military service. He was a teacher , coach, and mentor to many students, and he even won the "Coach of the Year" award in Florida one year. Dudley Armstrong was honored for his career and service as a law enforcement officer in the Miami Police Department. During undercover work he was recognized for saving a fellow officer’s life.
Last year’s recipients’ were Sidney Mordes, George Rose, Perly Saffold, and Mary Ann Jones-Burke. The Jackson County Times wishes to congratulate all of these deserving senior citizens.