Community lost two good souls

Dear editor:

Last week we mourned the death of two wonderful men in our community.

Both of them practiced work ethics that have long gone out of style. They were both dedicated to the success of their families, not only of theirs but of many families out there that needed their help or encouragement.

They were men of common sense which, is not so common anymore. They found a way to do the things that couldn't be, coming from a generation who could always find a way to accomplish what was needed.

Both will leave a solid legacy of honesty, decency, hard work, persistence, overcoming obstacles, compassion, teaching by example, being a good neighbor, a sense of community and a faithful friend. They had a life well-lived.

John Willis, I admired from afar, the grandfather of my son's good friend, a familiar face around town, always busy on his way to and from a task and a pleasant word for anyone he met.

Bert Landon, a neighbor, a friend, a teacher and mentor for my son, always had a home away from home for young men starting out, a safe place.

My daughter needed a ride to California when Bert and Sheryl were living there. Bert had a new pickup, he'd been to Mountain Home and was on his way back to California. He'd been burning the candle at both ends and needed a driver. My daughter was a teenager and willing to drive that new pickup, while Bert slept. When he awoke in California, he said he'd never made that trip in so short a time. Patience, did I mention that trait, with the young.

These good men who have left us many memories, will continue to speak to family and friends for years to come.

Evanna B. Hamilton