Long County High School’s class of 1974 had its 40th reunion July 19 at Long County Middle School.  

Twenty-three of the class’ 58 graduates attended the celebration and, according to organizer Cindy McClellan, the night won’t be forgotten.

“It was an enjoyable evening, seeing some of our classmates that we hadn’t seen in 40 years … even after having many late nights, it was worth every one of them, to see all the smiles on everyone’s face when they entered the lunchroom,” she said.
Some of the graduates were hometown residents who have never left the area, while many made lengthy trips to attend.

According to McClelland, La Verne Henry Burk traveled the farthest, logging 620 miles from Virginia.  

In addition to classmates attending the rally, there also were several teachers who were guests. Miriam Murray, Alma Mitcham, Mildred Elder and current Board of Education Chairwoman Janet Watford were former educators who took time to visit with their former students. Other current BoE members who also attended were Florence Baggs and Dr. Carolyn Williamson.  

McClelland said seven former classmates have died. All of them were remembered at the reunion.

“We held a memorial for the seven classmates that were deceased. There will always be empty spots in my heart because they are not here to celebrate with us,” she said.

Plans already are being made for the class to meet again in five years, McClelland said, who added that she appreciated all who attended and helped with the planning.

“I especially want to thank Carl Rozier and Faye Caison for all their help,” she said. “It was such a great success. I hope we all keep in touch with each other.”