1980

Looking back on 1980

Mary Ethel and Walter (Gale) spent 2 weeks in England during the summer after a visit to Searcy lat in June to help J.D. and Mary's 40th wedding anniversary. Mary Ethel was responsible for overseeing the making of a beautiful quilt with squares from all over the country

David returned in August from a year in Korea, then went to Germany for the NATO exercises in September. He visited Searcy in October for the Harding Academy Homecoming. Phyllis, Micheal, and Laura, were at home in Gig Harbor, Washington.

Barbara Ann and Miriah (Gibson) spent the summer in Searcy, while Barbara attended summer-school at Harding. Hugh continued to work in Illinois during this time. The whole family was on hand for the anniversary celebration.

Mark, Becky and Greg are adjusting to Mark's new job of teaching Jr. High School in McCrory, Arkansas, while they continue to live just out from Searcy - the only members of the Bales family still living in Arkansas!

Jonathan and Marlene continue to live and work in Nashville, Tennessee. Jonathan is taking classes in Business Management at Tennessee State University.

Robin graduated from Harding in May, became engaged to Mark Kirk of Huntington, W. Virginia in June, was married on November 22 at the College church in Searcy, and lives now in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

J. D. prepared to retire from Harding at the end of the Fall semester after more than 36 years of teaching. He and Mary welcomed all of the children (except David) home for their 40th wedding anniversary (the picture on the front was taken at that time), then Mary and Robin flew to England to join Mary Ethel and Walt.

Grampa Smart became a member of the Bales' household in June when he found that he could no longer manage alone in Beamsville, Ontario.

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;

for his steadfast love endures for ever!

1981