By Clarice Parsons, a 1948 Clay County High School graduate
Something special happens the third Saturday in September as hundreds of Clay County High School alumni converge on their former high school. School administrators graciously open the doors of the school as a meeting place for those graduating classes holding reunions. Graduates meet in different classrooms throughout the building, including the library.
Former students spend the better part of a day reminiscing, catching up, and enjoying the company of their friends. However, there is one class which has the distinction of the oldest alumni in attendance—the class of 1948. In case you don’t want to do the math, they will be celebrating their 75th reunion on September 16, 2023.
The class of 1948 has been meeting since their 30th reunion. In that year, approximately 60 of the 92 students met and decided to meet every 5 years thereafter. By the time they reached their 45th class reunion, they decided to make it a yearly event. Over the course of their reunions the planning has passed through many hands. For years they met at 11:00 for a potluck lunch. During their reunions they have held solemn memorial tributes to honor their deceased classmates, published class address books, and contributed items for a silent auction to benefit the Clay County High School Scholarship Fund. In 2022, four of the members of the class were able to attend: Wilma Mullins Fitzwater, Frank Murphy, Clarice Shamblin Parsons, and JoAnna Vaughn Samples.
They are appreciative of the Clay County Bank for supplying the evening meal for the hundreds of alumni who attend this special event. They wish to thank Mr. Greg Gency (CEO) for providing the dinner. The Clay County Bank has been sponsoring this free meal for 30 years.