Farewell, my friends. If you are reading this, I have gone up in a puff of smoke. Grieve lightly for me as I have had an active and, until recently, healthy life.

I was born about 73 years ago in the Stonewall Jackson House in Lexington, creating an early interest in history. I attended elementary schools in Rockbridge County, where at a pivotal moment in my life story, I learned to read, an activity that has brought me much pleasure my entire life.

I graduated with honors from Lincoln Memorial University - a small, liberal arts college near the Cumberland Gap, where I polished my card-playing skills. I became a public school teacher in kindergarten and secondary school for the next 30 years to advocate for all children and social justice; consequently, I became a life-long Democrat.

My father, Lloyd Nuckols, of Walkers Creek (Rockbridge County) preceded me in death. I am survived by my husband of 47 years, Jim, a principled man, best friend and traveling companion. What great adventures we had from the upper Missouri River to the Silk Road of Central Asia. Surviving me also is my son, Grayson, of Richmond, and his wife, Sara, the daughter of my heart. My brother, Frank, and his wife, Brenda, of Walkers Creek, cared for and supported me to the end. (Frank, please forgive me for the childhood pranks, notably the "ghost and Santa secret.") My mother, Dolis Parker Nuckols, my sister, Candance, of Craigsville, my brother, Gary, and his wife, Dora, of Walkers Creek, complete the list of family who survive me.

There will be no funeral service. If you choose to remember me, use good whiskey for the toast and/or donate to the Montgomery County Humane Society, P. O. Box 287, Blacksburg, VA 24063 (www.hsmcshelter.com).

Arrangements are by Horne Funeral Home & Crematory (540) 382-2612.