The Editor, Sir:

Neva L. Young, née Walters, retired educator, disciplinarian and mentor immortalised. "Not the duration of one's life but how she lives. Not what she gains, but what she gives."

Superlatives are hard to find to ably describe one who spent some 70 or more years in a rural community called Hopeton.

I had on many occasions questioned her wisdom - a young charming graduate coming from teachers' training college condescending to take up residence in a place where there was no electricity, no piped water, nor good roads.

GODsend

However, I soon discovered that she was a godsend to rescue many of us who were neither to be considered bright nor from a blue-blooded parentage; that could have gained us entry into one of the recognised grammar schools. She assisted us in obtaining an education that would allow us to take our rightful place in society.

While I was attending primary school, Mrs Young had undertaken to purchase me a book, Intro-duction to Latin, and to teach me accordingly.

Despite the fact that she hailed from an affluent family, there was no scintilla of arrogance nor any form of complex. In addition to being the principal of a school, she was involved in community activities, the JAS and the Church.

Lagacy continues

My teacher extraordinary, you were a beacon; you are not dead because your memories resonate in our minds. My profound condolences to the members of the family and, particularly her children.

The road of life was getting rough; she packed her bag and gently went to sleep.

I am, etc.,

WINSTON R. BLAKE

Minister of Religion

Lot 111

Lacovia Housing Scheme

St. Elizabeth