Several days ago my heart was once again tugged homeward. I received word that a friend and former colleague had passed from this life to her reward in heaven. Dale Ballard-Howland, or Ms. Dale, as she was affectionately called, was a very private person who wanted nothing said or done at her passing. But, how can those of us who had grown to love her and appreciate the person she was not say something?
Dale's son Lydan and my son John were very good friends, but I did not become personally acquainted with Dale until the Christmas after John was re-located to heaven. She and Lydan brought a gift by. I still have and treasure that gift. Her thoughtfulness was my introduction to the woman I came to know.
Ms. Dale was the "cafeteria lady." The one who counted students, collected money, kept the books, and kept the students "in-line." Many have told me she was strict but very fair. She didn't want anyone behaving in an un-lady like or un-gentlemanly manner. She learned all their names, but insisted on calling them endearing nicknames. If a student needed extra portions, Dale saw to it that he/she got them. If a student had no lunch money, Dale bought his or her lunch. No child went hungry with Ms. Dale around.
But, her kindness was not limited to the lunch room. Some students wanted to start an afterschool soccer team, so Dale bought the jerseys. A teacher needed a walker after breaking a bone in her leg, so Dale brought one that had been used by her son as he battled cancer. She donated books to the library, helped students with sponsorships, and became a source of encouragement to me and many other teachers. Her smile was infectious! And, it will be greatly missed.
To the precious lady who came to me with a gift that will forever be treasured and the friend she became, I say so long dear, dear lady. You will be missed by all who knew you. Just be cautious as you walk those streets of gold; Lydan and John are probably still up to some of their old pranks. :-)
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