Hillbilly version: Doug is a prime example of the old adage: If it ain’t broke don’t fix it or put another way if it is working leave it alone. Doug has at various times in our 67 year association been a teacher, a friend and a cantankerous old man. We have things in common. Doug was raised in a different era. You did not waste money. The times influence your point of view as does your interactions with those around you.

In the spring of ’59 Doug showed up to help my family plant our first crop. The Stevens had a tractor and a planter. I was seven and he was twenty. We had little in common.

I would like take a moment to clear up a misconception about Doug. There was a perception in the community that he would not work. This was wrong. At the age of twelve, after five years in the community, once again Doug and I met in the field. This time it was his family’s farm. It was the first time I ever got paid for working. Doug ran the equipment. And I need to pause and tell you about his mowing machine. This machine needed a part. So, I asked what kind it was. Doug had taken parts from four different machines and made his own. You might not be able to use it but Doug could and did. It is a one of a kind. He used it last year.

Anyway, when the hay baling was finished, he heaved bales along with everyone else. This was getting along in the afternoon and he declared that the bales might be a little heavy. It was the first time we had agreed on anything. I could have told him a lot earlier if he had asked.

What I learned that day Doug did work; Ms Flossie set a fine table- as was the custom at the time; Wilburn was good at overseeing; and Ms Norma, despite her handicap, cared for the house and the flowers.

Now let me tell you what Doug could not do. First, Doug did not pay attention to his sister because I would dare anyone to say he had any housekeeping skills. And Doug could not drive safely. No vehicle ever owned by Doug escaped untouched. Some would say his vehicles got dings because he kept them so long but I think maybe he didn’t pay attention to his driving. One trip and it only took one trip. We agreed that I would drive when we went places. We also agreed that playing cards with Doug was dangerous to your bank balance.

Let me close by saying not once did Doug or any part of the Stevens family ever said no to any request for help. They were there when needed. Each of them will be remembered as good people and a positive part of the community. Thank you.