It's not a secret that I don't get paid a whole lot at my job - but I do get to meet some amazing people and you can't put a price tag on that.For the past two and half years I was honored to know Smith Callaway Banks, a historian from Statesboro. A couple years back, he donated his collection of Southern Folk Art to the department. I was fortunate enough to build a relationship with Smith as I worked with his collection. Unfortunately, Smith lost a battle to his health last night and it breaks my heart.
I never had a phone call where he didn't ask about my new baby Jack or my hero of a husband who was selflessly serving our country, "How's that Jack doin'?" with a chuckle. Jack, too, was fortunate enough to know Smith. And of course, Jack brought a smile to Smith's face every time.
When I visited him in the ICU last week, he couldn't speak, but I showed him pictures of the new exhibition from his collection and told him stories about Jack - he would just shake his hands and feet with excitement. His brain was sharp as a tack but his body just couldn't keep up.
Smith was an influential, generous man and I am lucky to have known him.
When I visited him in the ICU last week, he couldn't speak, but I showed him pictures of the new exhibition from his collection and told him stories about Jack - he would just shake his hands and feet with excitement. His brain was sharp as a tack but his body just couldn't keep up.
Smith was an influential, generous man and I am lucky to have known him.
1 comment:
I recall the heartfelt stories you told me about Smith. I'm sorry for your loss. He was lucky to have known you also.
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