Goodbye to Old Friends....

Despite lots of progress and miracles of new birth and rebuilding every day, there is also sad news coming out of Pearlington in the last few days.

Despite personally being told by School Board president Morgan Ladner, at the board meeting Thursday, July 7th, that the demolition of Chas. B. Murphy E.S. "had not yet been decided," the dozers showed up the following morning. By the time I left on Monday the 10th, they were hard at work.

The only thing remaining of the much beloved school is the Library and Pearl*Mart (gym). I am awaiting final pictures of the remains. The photos below were taken just as I was leaving town on Monday last.

We thank God for the mercy of the remaining portions and join all of Pearlington in grieving for what was once a vibrant and distinguished place of learning.

On Thursday, July 13, as a consequence of gall bladder surgery, one of Pearlington’s most respected elders past from this world. Harry Bell was in his 72nd year and leaves behind his wife Nancy, two sons and two daughters, including Janet Dawson of Pearlington.



A retired tugboat captain, Harry was a native of Slidell, LA and the grandfather of 22 children and one great-granddaughter.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the memorial service at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints , 112 Rue Esplanade, Slidell on Tuesday, July 18.

"Every man’s death diminishes me, for I am a part of mankind. Therefore, send not to ask for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee."
- John Donne

Rest well, Harry. We’ll take it from here.