LETTERS: SOUTHEAST MISSOURI LOSES A DEAR FRIEND AND AN OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR

To the editor:

Last week Southeast Missouri said goodbye to a dear friend, Mrs. Mary Maud Hosea.

When we are young we think we are immortal. The older we get we realize no one is. But sometimes we cross paths with an individual who makes the world a better place by their presence in it. These people become immortal in our hearts. Their paychecks may not have six figures or their homes 60 rooms. Their success comes from the lives they have touched.

Mrs. Mary Maud, as she was most lovingly called, was a person who found success in nurturing young people and teachers. She was an educator in the truest sense of the world.

She gave of herself and found her rewards by helping others achieve to the best of their abilities. Honestly, fairness and a sincere regard for others kept her a vital person throughout her lifetime.

My eyes fill with tears as I write this. Not mourning for her, because she has, indeed, a greater reward. I find the sadness selfish, because I want people like Mrs. Mary Maud to do on forever on this earth. They increase our value as a human race. They contribute worth to an oftentimes worthless group of people. They are a success at living life.

Mrs. Mary Maud: the best of the best. It was truly my pleasure.

JANE COX

Delta