Dibrell High graduates reunite

The class of 1969, the last to graduate from Dibrell High School before consolidation of schools, met July 31 at North Warren Fire Hall for its 35th reunion. There were 19 of the original 26 class members attending with spouses, special friends and former teachers Patsy Jones Webb, art teacher and cheerleader sponsor, and Russell Watson, agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor.

Photos of the two deceased classmates, Gayla Pelham Whitlock and Steve Womack, were displayed on a remembrance table decorated with fresh greenery, candles and ribbon in the school colors of purple and gold.

A barbeque dinner was served. Class vice president David Green welcomed the group and Darrell Russell gave the invocation. Opening the evening’s entertainment was a comedy skit by Carol Couch Clem and Donna Dixon St. John. A ballad about the class of ’69, written and performed by Don Webster, was a hit with the group, as was another guitar solo by Steve Fuston. Interesting talent was unveiled as many performed with the karaoke machine.

Earlier in the evening the Dibrell Memorial Museum was opened by Carole Haley Thrower and several toured it for the first time. The museum displays photos, furnishings and memorabilia from the high school, the community and Dibrell College (1902-1922). The class left a generous contribution for the museum.

The event was planned by class president Bob Flanders and a committee of Elaine Stewart Alsup, David Green, Larry Atchley and Darrell Russell.

Although most classmates still reside in the McMinnville and Warren County area, others traveled from Nashville and Houston, Texas for the reunion.