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___ PCN FLIGHT WEST is sponsored by the Pilot Communication Network and is a service of the PCN provided for the Delta Pilot Retired family of pilot groups. Flight West was started and is maintained to accomplish two main goals. After we become aware of a colleague who has Flown West, 1. We aim to produce a “timely” notice sent to our community that allows for support and interaction from our group toward the grieving family of our friend and colleague. 2. Then, we aim to “archive” that notice on our Flown West Blogspot as a lasting accessible place of Dignity and Honor of our colleague for family legacy and posterity. Contributor contact info is generally removed before posting (unless requested otherwise).

HOME PAGE SHOWs THE 5 MOST RECENT POSTS.

Sunday, January 29, 2023

DL Capt. Robert "Bob" D. Mims III

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, DL Capt.  Robert "Bob" D. Mims III

March 21, 1942 ~ January 24, 2023

 


Notice of passing…..retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Robert "Bob" D. Mims III, age 80.  Captain Mims joined Delta Air Lines 02-08-1973 and was based ATL/030.  He is survived by his wife Theresa and by his children and their families.  To view the obituary and share memories online please visit the funeral home website at

https://www.coxrichmondhillfh.com/obituary/robert-bob-mims-iii

A funeral mass will be held at noon on Friday, Feb. 3rd at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in Savannah.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. the evening prior at Richmond Hill Funeral Home, 8901 Ford Ave., Richmond Hill, Georgia.

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

 

Obituary : Robert "Bob" D. Mims III

Robert D. Mims III (Bob) passed away January 24, 2023, with his family by his side after a long illness. He was a devoted Patriarch to his family and will be missed by his family always. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Theresa, daughter Terri (David), son John (Teresa) and 6 grandchildren 2 great grandchildren.

 

Bob is a graduate of West Georgia College. Bob served 2 years in Vietnam and received a Distinguished Flying Cross for his accomplishments. He retired from the Air National Guard after 24 years of service to his Country. He was a pilot for Delta Airlines and retired in 2001 after 29 years of service. Bob enjoyed his family and friends to the fullest and enjoyed an active life filled with love, birthdays, holidays, family events, hunting, fishing and vacations.

 

The passing years brought joy and good times with his many friends and family. He was a member of the Forest City Gun Club, Grey Eagles, SAFANG, and a former Richmond Hill Rotary club member.

 

Funeral services are provided by Richmond Hill Funeral Home, see website for details. coxrichmondhillfh.com

https://www.coxrichmondhillfh.com/obituary/robert-bob-mims-iii  

In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to Tunnel to Towers. https://www.tunnel2towers.org/


Saturday, January 28, 2023

DL Capt. Vernon Dennis Goldston

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, DL Capt. Vernon Dennis Goldston

July 9, 1932 ~ January 26, 2023

 


Notice of passing….retired Delta Air Lines pilot Capt. Vernon Dennis Goldston, age 90.  Captain Goldston joined Delta Air Lines 07-25-1960 and was Dallas based.  He is survived by his wife JoAnn, and by his sons and their families.  

Please see the funeral home website to share memories online at

https://www.ramseyfuneral.com/obituary/vernon-goldston 

Obituary information is also available for viewing at

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/vernon-goldston-obituary?id=39028480 

A memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, February 1st at 10:00 AM at Ramsey Funeral Home in Georgetown, TX. Visitation will be the evening prior from 5:00-7:00 pm at Ramsey Funeral Home.

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

 

Obituary : Vernon Dennis Goldston

Servant of the LORD

Devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.

Vernon was born on July 9, 1932 on the farm in Donnelly County, Texas, to John Goldston and Lenora Goldston. He graduated from Clarendon High School in 1949 and went on to earn a Bachelor's of Science from Texas Tech. Vernon started flying small aircraft in high school, spent 7 years flying in the Navy after graduating from Officer Candidate School, instructed for the Air Force, and climaxed his flying career with 34 years of service on Delta Airlines.

This gentle soul was best known for ranching, antique cars, golf, genealogy, art, love of Texas and Indian history, gardening and church. As a deacon of First Baptist Georgetown part of his service included visiting homebound deacons and widows and serving them the Lord's supper. He participated in the Meals on Wheels program and found ways to serve others in his neighborhood.

Some of Vernon's favorite pastimes included crossword puzzles, reading the Bible, playing cards, dominoes, and spending time in his garage creating southwest inspired art. He and JoAnn were passionate about serving in the GriefShare Ministry, facilitating Bible studies and The Truth Project, travelling to many wonderful destinations including some following the life of Jesus and His disciples. They spent many summers in the mountains of Tennessee.

Vernon is survived by his wife of 24 years, JoAnn Goldston, sons Steve Goldston and his wife Lauri, David Goldston and his wife Sue, grandsons - Trent Goldston and wife Kelly, Andrew Goldston and wife Blake, and Eric Goldston, 5 great grandchildren and extended step family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Lenora Goldston, wife and mother of their three children, June Stokes and daughter, Julie Goldston.

A memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, February 1, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Ramsey Funeral Home in Georgetown, TX. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 31, 2023 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Ramsey Funeral Home. Grave side services will take place at I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Georgetown, TX.

If you would like to do something in his memory, Vernon's spoken desire was that you consider a contribution to First Baptist Church Georgetown (fbg.org) or Holy Angels Residential Facility (laholyangels.org).

Published by Ramsey Funeral Home & Crematorium on Jan. 28, 2023.

 

MEMORIAL EVENTS FOR VERNON GOLDSTON

JAN 31

Visitation 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Ramsey Funeral Home

5600 Williams Drive, Georgetown, TX

 

FEB  1  Funeral Service

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

The Chapel of Ramsey Funeral Home

5600 Williams Drive, Georgetown, TX

 

FEB  1  Graveside Service

11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

I.O.O.F. Cemetery

1117 E. 7th St, Georgetown, TX

 

Funeral services provided by: Ramsey Funeral Home & Crematorium

512-869-7775

Friday, January 27, 2023

DL Capt. William G. Roessel, Jr.

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, DL Capt. William G. Roessel, Jr.

September 28, 1948  ~  January 24, 2023

 

Notice of passing….retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain William G. Roessel Jr., age 74.  Captain Roessel joined Delta Air Lines 03-09-1979 and was based LGA/030.  Bill is survived by his wife Cindy and by his son Jonas.

Obituary information is available online at

https://www.chapmanfuneral.com/obituaries/William-G-Roessel-Jr?obId=27153062#/obituaryInfo 

Bill’s obituary notes that services are being planned and will be held at a later date.

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

 

Obituary : William G. Roessel, Jr.

William "Bill" G Roessel, Age 74 of Harwich, MA, passed away on Tuesday January 24, 2023, at Cape Cod Hospital with his family by his side. He leaves behind his wife of 41 years, Cindy Roessel, his son Jonas Roessel of Boston, MA, and his niece Annah Nelson-Feeney of Seattle, WA. Bill was born in Providence, RI on September 28th 1948 to the late William and Zelma "Swirbul" Roessel.

 

After graduating from Bryant University, Bill entered pilot training in the US Airforce. Upon completing pilot training in the top of his class in '72 at Lackland Air Force Base, TX, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant receiving his pilot wings. He then relocated to Westover Airforce Base. It was there where he met his wife of 41 years, Cindy. After leaving the Air Force, Bill began his civilian career as an airline pilot for Delta Airlines, quickly demonstrating his excellence and skill and ascending to Captain.

 

Bill and Cindy were married April 1981 and began establishing roots in the Greater New England area, first settling in Westfield, MA. In 1991, they adopted and welcomed their son Jonas into the family. By 1994 they decided to relocate to Harwich, MA to be closer to Cindy's family. Bill and Cindy constructed a home for themselves along with Cindy's sister Pam Nelson and daughter Annah.

 

Although traveling extensively for work Bill was still heavily involved in Jonas and Annah's childhood, from little league to Halloween parties to violin concerts. He enjoyed many hobbies and was an active member of the Cape Cod Corvette Club and an avid recreational sailor; he shared these hobbies and more with his family and friends.

 

His legacy will be his selfless devotion to family and unwavering support of those he loved. He will be deeply missed.

 

Services are still being planned and details will be provided at a later date.

 

Notes of comfort can be made to Bill's family at www.chapmanfuneral.com

Thursday, January 26, 2023

DL Capt. Edward Irvin Hicks

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

DL Capt. Edward Irvin Hicks

February 11, 1942 ~ January 24, 2023

 


Notice of passing….. retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Edward Irvin Hicks, age 80.  Captain Hicks joined Delta Air lines 08-15-1969 and was based Chicago, then 030/PDX prior to retirement.  He is survived by his wife Leslie and by his children and grandchildren.

To view the obituary and share memories online please visit

https://www.blythfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Edward-Irvin-Hicks?obId=27134746#/obituaryInfo 

Obituary may also be viewed at

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/edward-hicks-obituary?id=38760282 

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

 

Obituary : Edward Irvin Hicks, 80, resident of Ninety Six, husband of Leslie Bashnan Hicks, passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2023, at Self Regional Healthcare.

Born February 11, 1942, in Seguin, TX, he was a son of the late Charles George and Norma L. Clark Hicks. He was a graduate of University of South Carolina and was an United States Air Force veteran, attending pilot training at Moody Air Force Base, he then spent 6 years as an instructor pilot at Laredo AFB and a fighter pilot at Grissom AFB. Ed was a founding member of The Lima Lima Flight Team, and during his tenure with Lima Lima, he flew the slot position. Edward Hicks retired from Delta Air Lines after 32 years of service.

He was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Warbirds of America, and The Single Action Shooting Society.

Surviving in addition to his wife Leslie, are a daughter, Kristine Hicks Laca of Montevideo, Uruguay; a son, Robert Edward Hicks (Angela) of Leonardtown, MD; two grandchildren, Alexandra Laca Hicks and Jackson Robert Hicks; and a sister, Nancy H. Coursey.

He was predeceased by a brother, Dale Allen Hicks.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

 

Published by Blyth Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Greenwood on Jan. 26, 2023.

DL Capt. James Presnall Newberry III

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Navy veteran, DL Capt. James Presnall Newberry III

May 17, 1940 ~ January 4, 2023

 


Notice of passing…..retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain James Presnall Newberry III, age 82.  Captain Newberry joined Delta Air Lines 06-02-1969 and was based Dallas, then ATL/031 at time of retirement.  Widowed in September 2015, Captain Jim is survived by his children and grandchildren.

To view the obituary and share memories online please visit

https://www.affoplano.com/obituary/james-newberry-iii 

Obituary may also be viewed at

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/james-newberry-obituary?id=38794374

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

 

Obituary : James Presnall Newberry III

James Presnall Newberry II was born May 17, 1940, in Washington D.C. to native Texans, Brigadier General James Presnall Newberry (USAF) and Patty Sims Newberry.

James, known as Jim or Captain Jim, had a love of travel and adventure early in life. Born to a military family that moved frequently, he would return to his grandfather's farm every summer under the open skies of Bryan, Texas. He always spoke of his life with great fondness. As a young boy, his family lived in many places, including Washington D.C., Alabama, Texas, Germany, and Panama. Consequently, he attended more schools than he could ever remember. Despite a lifetime full of travel, it was because of the close relationship with his grandfather, Milton Walker Sims, that he considered Texas his home.

He was appointed to United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland where many enduring friendships were formed. As a student in 1960, Jim attended the Army Navy game whereby a stroke of luck he met his lifelong love, Mary Jane. A wave and a wink are all it took to spark their courtship. Jim and Mary Jane were married the day after his graduation at the US Naval Academy Chapel on June 8, 1963. Jim was immediately commissioned and started his flying career in the United States Air Force and later with Delta Airlines for 31 years.

Upon his Delta career, Jim and Mary Jane settled in Dallas, Texas to raise a family. During their 52-year marriage, Jim was active in commitments both in and outside of the home. With an optimistic spirit and a contagious laugh, he wore many hats between flights. He was a storyteller, he coached children's soccer teams, he raised cattle on his grandfather's land, and he could fix almost anything. Jim was also an early adaptor of technology, which served as an invaluable tool for his family and his volunteer work.

As a devout Catholic, Jim was active in the church choir and was dedicated to serve others. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and recently was described as "a man that would always show up" and would "never say no". For over four decades, he raised money for countless charities and organizations; including Wadley Hospital, St. Rita Catholic Church, All Saints Catholic Church, and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. At Wadley Hospital, he and Mary Jane helped raise money for Leukemia and created elaborate decorations for charitable events. Most recently at St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton, Jim and Mary Jane started and led the Lenten Fish Fry for 11 years. Jim's dedication and spirit were always present, making friends wherever he went.

His flying career took his family across the world on countless adventures. Mary Jane accompanied Jim on his flights to every major city in the US and Europe. He would often say, the closest thing to flying was sailing, and voyaged throughout the Mediterranean, Caribbean and South Pacific. He taught his daughters the love of travel not only by air, but by sea. After Jim retired, they bought a boat and created their own adventures on Lake Lewisville where he lived up to his reputation of Captain Jim.

Over the years Jim and Mary Jane adopted three families as their own who referred to him as Gramps: Jack and Lisa Theis, and children JT, Jake, Catherine, and Christina; Thuy Thai and daughter Daphne; Randy and Karen Markum, and daughter Paige.

On January 4, 2023, at the age of 82, Jim grew his own wings and took flight to be with his beloved wife Mary Jane, where he can continue his adventures. He is survived by his daughters, Nancy Ann Newberry and Julie Sims Newberry; grandchildren Jenna Sims Newberry and Presnall Sims Newberry. He will be profoundly missed by so many. His joy of life and laughter will never be forgotten.

There will be a mass at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 26, 2023, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2700 W Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano, Texas with Rev. Bruce Bradley officiating.

Jim will be laid to rest at the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church Columbarium immediately follow the mass. There will be a reception to follow the inurnment.

If desired, the family asks that donations be made in Jim's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in the name of James Presnall Newberry II. https://www.stjude.org/

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of James Presnall Newberry III, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

 

Published by Allen Family Funeral Options - Plano on Jan. 26, 2023.

Funeral services provided by:

Allen Family Funeral Options – Plano

(972) 596-8200

………………………………………… 

https://www.affoplano.com/obituary/4236261 

Maryjane Newberry

July 30, 1939 - September 15, 2015

 

Maryjane Newberry died September 15, 2015 as a result of a fatal car accident. We know Maryjane is in heaven with the Lord and her beloved Mary.

 

Maryjane was born to an Italian father and Polish mother in Morristown, New Jersey on July 30, 1939. She grew up in Morris Plains, attended the Fairleigh Dickinson University Business School, and became a Medical Assistant.

 

In 1960, Maryjane attended the Army Navy game where by a stroke of luck, she met her life long love, Jim. A wave and a wink is all it took to spark the relationship. Jim and Maryjane were married at the Naval Academy Chapel on June 8, 1963. Jim was commissioned and started his flying career in the US Air Force and later with Delta Airlines.

 

During their 52-year marriage, Maryjane raised 3 children and was active in a plethora of commitments both in and outside of the home. She worked at the Dallas Apparel Mart managing 2 show rooms. While her husband Jim was flying, she car-pooled the kids to sports, music, and dance. She coached children's soccer and she was active in the PTA. Later she continued her involvement at University events at St. Edward's, Texas A&M, and helped lead the A&M Mother's Club. Meanwhile, she helped maintain a family farm and raise cattle in Bryan, Texas.

 

Her love of travel started when she was young, taking her first transatlantic flight to Europe when she was 18. Maryjane accompanied Jim on his flights to every major city in the US and Europe. Throughout her husband's career she traveled the world and loved to sail in the Caribbean, Greece, Bermuda, and Tonga. After Jim retired they bought a boat and created their own adventures in Dallas and on Lake Lewisville…………………

Friday, January 20, 2023

DL Capt. Bobby Gene Measles

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

DL Capt. Bobby Gene Measles

March 31, 1936 ~ January 15, 2023

 


Notice of passing…..retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Bobby Gene Measles, age 86.  Captain Measles joined Delta Air Lines 10-03-1966 and was Dallas based.  He is survived by his wife Bernita, and by his children and their families.

To view the obituary and share memories online please visit

https://www.kleinfh.com/obituary/bobby-measels 

For those who wish to send condolences, I see the residence listed in whitepages as

28713 Post Oak Run

Magnolia, TX 77355

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

 

Obituary : Bobby Gene Measles

Bobby Gene Measles, age 86, went home to be with his Lord on January 15, 2023. He leaves behind many family and friends who love him deeply.

 

Bobby was born on March 31, 1936 in Olton, TX to JG and Mary Measles. He attended Olton schools but finished his high school in Kress, TX. This is where he met the love of his life Bernita Obenhaus. On December 15, 1956 they were married in Plainview, TX. They moved to Earth, TX where he farmed and they had two children Bobby Bryan and Brenda. They left farming and moved to Plainview where he worked three jobs and learned to fly. In 1963 he picked his family up and moved to Arkansas and sold Piper and Cessna planes and taught others how to fly. In 1966 he got a job with Delta Airlines and again picked his family up and moved to Atlanta, Georgia for 3 months. Delta then moved them to the Dallas, TX area until 1968. In 1968 they moved to Sharpstown, TX and he flew out of Hobby Airport. In 1970 Houston Intercontinental Airport was built and they moved to Spring, TX.

 

While in Spring, Tx he not only flew for Delta but he also was very active in Boy Scouts and Explorers and building the volunteer fire department in Northampton. They made many memories with their kids and friends while living in Northampton. In 1984 he and Bernita decided they were ready for a slower paced life so they moved to Mineola, TX where they bought a beautiful 90 acre piece of property. He flew out of Dallas, TX while living in Mineola. He was very active in Farm Bureau, Mineola School Board, First Baptist Mineola and spending time with friends. In 2011 he began to have health issues so he and Bernita decided it was best to live near family. They sold their 90 acres and moved away from the friends they loved so much to Magnolia, TX where Brenda lives.

 

Bobby loved his grandchildren most of anyone. He beamed when talking about them. He bragged at how all three, Josh, Kalee, and Gabrielle, went to Texas A&M. He would proudly wear his Aggie hat and shirt and let you know his grandkids went there.

 

Bobby is survived by he loving wife Bernita Measles, his son Bobby Bryan Measles (Cindy), daughter Brenda Mayo (Mark), grandchildren Josh Measles (Ashley), Kalee Measles, and Gabrielle Cantrell (Austin), great grandchild (Elliana) and two great grandchildren yet to be born (one in May and one in July).

 

Bobby is preceded in death by his parents JG and Mary, his brother James, sisters TiaJuana, Wilma and Mary Lu.

 

A very special thank you goes to A Place at Home Woodlands owners, Adam and Trista Johnson, and the many loving caregivers they placed with Bobby. The love they showed can never be repaid. And to Reunion Court Woodlands for all the love each staff member showed to him including the memory care unit where Bernita is. They lovingly took care of him even though he wasn’t their responsibility. Words can never express how the family appreciates all you did for him.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bobby's memory to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. 

 

Services   Celebration of Life

  Saturday, January 28, 2023

  10:00 AM

Klein Funeral Home - Tomball

   1400 W. Main,  Tomball, TX 77375

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Carolyn Harriet Smith, wife of WA/DL Capt. Gordon Smith

 Please note…..we have a correction to the mailing address for Capt. Gordon Kay Smith.

Condolences may be sent to

MacKenzie Place,  Apt 417  

1605 Elm Creek View

Colorado Springs, CO  80907-7187

 

Thank you everyone!

~ Carol for the PCN

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Carolyn Harriet Smith, wife of WA/DL Capt. Gordon Smith

July 22, 1936 ~ January 6, 2023

 


Notice of passing…..Mrs. Carolyn Harriet Smith, age 86, wife of retired Western/Delta pilot Captain Gordon Kay Smith.  Carolyn is survived by her husband, and by their children and their grand- and great grandchildren.  Captain Smith joined Western Airlines 04-18-1966 and retired with Delta Air Lines. 

The Smith residence is listed in whitepages as

4910 Saint Andrews Ct.,  Loveland, CO 80537

A memorial service celebrating Carolyn's life will be held January 21st….please see arrangements below.

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

 

Obituary for  Carolyn Harriet Smith

FUNERAL HOME : Swan-Law Funeral Directors

501 North Cascade Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO

 

CAROLYN SMITH OBITUARY

Carolyn H. Smith, age 86, of Loveland, Colorado, passed away peacefully and entered into the full presence of the Lord on January 6, 2023. She was a devoted wife, homemaker, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Gordon K. Smith, sister, Winnelle (Jack) Newton, two children, Stan (Cindy) Smith and Angela (Tim) McKibben, five grandchildren (Tyler Smith, Hailey Brown, Alysha Cooper, Laura Trujillo, and Holly McKibben), and four great-grandchildren (Levi, Ruby, Nolan, and Ava). She is preceded in death by her parents, Garland Reed Harris and Florence Janelle Harris.

Carolyn was born on July 22, 1936, in Ryan, Oklahoma. Her family later moved to Belton, Missouri, where she met Gordon in 8th grade. Gordon and Carolyn graduated from Belton High School, and Carolyn went on to earn her teaching degree from Baker University. Following Gordon's graduation from the University of Missouri, they married on June 14, 1959. Carolyn taught second grade in Belton and after their wedding, taught school in Pensacola, Florida, while Gordon was in Naval Air Basic Training. Gordon's service in the Navy took them to Norfolk, Virginia, where they welcomed their first child, Stan. After Gordon's military service, he began a career as a pilot, and they lived in Geneseo, Illinois, where they welcomed their second child, Angela. Eventually, Gordon became a pilot for Western Airlines, followed by Delta Airlines, and they made their home in Colorado. They lived many years in Littleton, Longmont, and most recently, Loveland, Colorado.

Carolyn's joy throughout her life was caring for her husband, children, and their home. She loved attending church, cooking for her family, gardening, working on puzzles, and filling their home with treasured antiques (both family heirlooms and ones found "antiquing"). Carolyn also devoted many hours to creating beautiful, counted cross-stitch works of art. A memorial service honoring Carolyn's life will be held at First United Methodist Church, 420 N. Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs, at 2 pm on January 21st. Carolyn will be laid to rest at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army.

Monday, January 16, 2023

Jo Anne McLawhorn Padgett, wife of DL Capt. Doug Padgett

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Jo Anne McLawhorn Padgett, wife of DL Capt. Doug Padgett

AUGUST 4, 1936 – DECEMBER 27, 2022

 


Our group has been notified with news of the passing of Jo Anne Padgett, wife of retired Delta Air Lines pilot and Delta Golden Wings member Captain Douglas M. Padgett.  Obituary information is available online at

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca/obituaries/sandy-springs-ga/jo-anne-padgett-11081699

also at Jo Padgett Obituary (1936 - 2022) - Sandy Springs, GA - Atlanta Journal-Constitution (legacy.com) 

Memorial Service : January 21, 2023 at 1:00 pm

JOHNSON FERRY BAPTIST CHURCH

955 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta, GA 30068

Condolences may be sent to the family at :

125 RIVER COURT PKWY NW,  SANDY SPRINGS GA 30328-1103

 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN

 

Obituary of Jo Anne McLawhorn Padgett

IN THE CARE OF H.M. Patterson & Son-Arlington Chapel

Jo Anne McLawhorn Padgett, 86 of Sandy Springs, died peacefully at Northside Hospital on December 27, 2022. The funeral service will be held on January 21 at 1:00 p.m. at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, with burial at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia the day before, January 20, at 2:30 p.m. Jo Anne, affectionately known as JoJo to her grandchildren, was a bright presence in every life around her. Whether you knew her as a sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, or friend, she manifested her affection and love in her labor, her words, and her brilliant smile.

 

Jo Anne was born on August 4, 1936, in Winterville, North Carolina, the fourth of four daughters of Dennis Torbet McLawhorn and Madge Jenkins McLawhorn. Jo Anne always recalled her early years with great fondness--a happy childhood that began in a small farm house with no in-door plumbing, but also no lack of warmth and affection. Apart from the plumbing, it was a childhood she would later replicate in many ways for own kids--full of music and play, faith and friendship. She was a faithful member of Winterville Baptist Church–a devotion that lasted, in many ways, her whole life. She attended Winterville High School, where she played varsity basketball and was the salutatorian of her class. She attended Duke University, where she sang in the Duke Chapel Choir and was a member of Phi Mu Sorority. While at Duke she also met her future husband, Douglas M. Padgett (Doug), and became the Sweetheart of his fraternity, Kappa Sigma. She graduated with an A.B. in June 1958 and a Masters of Arts in Teaching in June 1959.

 

Following Duke, Jo Anne taught school in Melbourne. Florida, while Doug completed pilot training. She married Doug on October 22, 1960 at Winterville Baptist Church. The young couple spent a few months crisscrossing the county as Doug completed his United States Air Force pilot training, but eventually settled in Warner Robins, Georgia, with two Siamese cats. The early years were not always easy for a young Air Force couple. Their first child was stillborn in 1962. But more children quickly followed, and in 1966, Doug took a job at Delta Air Lines and the young family moved to Atlanta.

 

Over the decades, as her four children grew, Jo Anne did as well. As a wife and a mother, from Warner Robins to south-west Atlanta to Sandy Springs, she pursued a life of engagement and dedication to others, at church, in gardening and historical societies, in entertaining and social life. Her marriage was her foundation and Doug her greatest support–they were partners in family and friendship. She was always on the move, involved and engaged–baking in the kitchen, delivering those baked goods to her friends and family, attending to the details of family life and life in community. Her children and grandchildren’s many sporting, choral, or theater events were mandatory appointments–she refused to miss a single one. She loved her cats and dogs almost as much as her people and the feelings were reciprocated; when Jo Anne visited with her grandchildren, their dog, Ginger, would sit in JoJo’s lap for hours.

 

Jo Anne had been raised with a commitment to making a home for her family and all that that implies--cultural and art education, a creative dedication to good food and good fun, a delicate grace in all her relations, faith and a principled ethics–and she imparted those values to all around her. Jo Anne was never one just to partake and enjoy–she dedicated time and effort to her interests and causes, just as she did for family and friends. She loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and was a devoted member of her church and weekly Bible Study. She sang in the choir of every church she served in. She was also a founding member of the Riverside North Garden Club and a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Colonial Dames of America, the Sandy Springs Society, the Phi Mu and Duke alumni associations, and many other organizations, and supported these groups in every way she could.

 

The world was full of joy and beauty for Jo Anne and she shared that joy and beauty with others. She loved gardens and gardening and raised her children to share that love, growing tomatoes, carrots, strawberries, blueberries, and flowers. Her hill of daffodils is a sight to behold every February. She passed on her devotion to reading–especially who-done-its–and oh how she relished a good TV mystery! Her daring culinary and cosmetic adventures are the stuff of local legend. She could spend hours enjoying the process of both. She delighted in all kinds of theater–from puppets to Broadway. Her love of music, particularly choral music, captured her early and never let go, and she sought it out as a singer and in concerts in Atlanta and around the world.

 

As a hostess, she excelled. Whether it was the garden club Thanksgiving lunch, a Sunday school party, a dinner for a relative’s engagement, or the family Christmas white elephant party, entertaining was a kind of service and way of expressing her love and appreciation for all around her. Her home, the Padgett house, was open to all– a refuge for her friends and family, and her childrens’ and grandchildrens’ friends and family, to visit (or live in), always open and always warm and, for many cousins and nephews and nieces, especially, a place for fun.

 

Her spirit of adventure took her far beyond the confines of Georgia. She loved to travel and thrived on the road. Trips early on with her family were a pleasure–though probably no relief from the obligations of motherhood. But traveling with her husband or with friends or her sisters–whether across the country or across the globe–energized her and excited her. She was always ready to hit the road with Doug!

 

Her family and friends remember her and honor her now, for her integrity, her faith, her enthusiasm, her effort, and the transformational joy she worked in the small part of the world she called her own. She will be greatly missed.

 

Jo Anne is survived by Doug, her husband of 62 years; four children, Douglas M. Padgett, Jr. and wife, Marsha Massey, of Washington, DC, Marianne Trapnell and husband, Michael, of Marietta, Georgia, Paul M. Padgett II, and his wife, Dana, of Seattle, and Elizabeth Denyse Padgett Henry and husband, David, of Marietta; and eight grandchildren: Elizbeth Trapnell, Anne Morgan Trapnell, Sarah Trapnell, Rebekah Trapnell, Max Padgett, Mark Padgett, Eloise Padgett, and Julian Padgett. She is also survived by one sister, Denyse McLawhorn Smith of Robersonville, NC, 13 nieces and nephews and their spouses, and many cousins, and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two beloved sisters, Mamie McLawhorn Dews and Gay McLawhorn Love.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Jo Anne’s honor at the following organizations: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, designation: Global Ministries (https://www.johnsonferry.org/, click on “Give” or Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, designation: Global Ministries, ATTN: Business Office, 955 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta, GA 30068), or the Sandy Springs Society (https://sandyspringssociety.org/donations/general-donation/ or P.O. Box 720074 Sandy Springs, Georgia 30358).

Saturday, January 14, 2023

NWA Capt. Richard Russell Smith

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

NWA Capt. Richard Russell Smith

February 12, 1928 ~ January 1, 2023

 


From friends and colleagues we learn of the passing of retired Northwest Airlines pilot Captain Richard “Dick” Smith, age 94.  Dick joined Northwest Airlines 07-15-1948.  He is survived by his wife Eva and by his children, along with his grand- and great grandchildren.

Fellow pilots write: “NWA Captain Richard Smith died on January 1, 2023 after a an extended

struggle with lymphoma. 'Dick' was born in Jackson, Wyoming and raised in

Dodge Center, MN. He was orphaned at age four, raised by his Grandmother and

an Aunt.  Dick Smith came to NWA from general aviation and was hired on July 15, 1948.

At this time the common first assignment at NWA was copilot in the DC-3. His

aircraft flown list is extensive. He served decades in NWA Flight Training

and as ALPA LEC Chairman at MSP.”

Please see obituary details and service information below.

https://www.startribune.com/obituaries/detail/0000447292/?fullname=richard-r-dick-smith 

Thank you,

~ Carol for the PCN 

 

Obituary :    Richard (Dick) R. Smith

 

On New Year’s Day 2023, Captain Richard R. Smith took his final flight

westward at age 94. Dick is survived by his amazing bride of 71 years, Eva

Smith and his four children. Dick was predeceased by his oldest son,

Thomas. Dick also had three grandchildren and three great grandchilden.

 

A memorial service will take place on Sunday, January 29, 2023 at 11:00

am. The service will take place at Friendship Village, 8100 Highwood Dr,

Bloomington, MN 55438. After the memorial service there will be

refreshments and a social gathering at Friendship Village.

 

Dick was born on February 12, 1928 in Jackson, Wyoming to Reuben and

Roberta Smith. Both his parents passed away when Dick was very young and

he was moved to Rochester, Minnesota to be raised by his grandmother and

aunt. Dick Smith was a loving husband and father who treated all people

with respect, friendship, and was loyal and caring. Someone quick to listen

and slow to anger. Someone who always put himself after others. Someone who

always gave people second chances. And mostly, a truly humble man.

 

Dick worked as a pilot for Northwest Airlines for 41 years and was an

active participant in his union and management. He was always described as

being one of the smoothest pilots that his peers ever flew with. He

retired as the number one 747 Captain in February of 1988 leaving an

indelible imprint on his profession. He continued to fly gliders and small

general aviation aircraft in his retirement. He loved to fly and believed

he never worked a day in his life due to his absolute passion for flying.

 

Dick will be missed by all who knew him. His almost 95 years on this

planet was a place he made better by his presence. Memorials in his name

can be given to Boys Town. You can donate at boystown.org 

...........................................

 https://www.alpa.org/news-and-events/air-line-pilot-magazine/shoulders-upon-which-we-stand   

Capt. David Smith (United) with his father and mentor, Capt. Richard “Dick” R. Smith who flew for Northwest Airlines.


On New Year’s day 2023, a great family man, a humble soul, and a 41-year ALPA member, Capt. Richard “Dick” R. Smith, flew west. He was my father and mentor.

Why is this passing of one of our own so noteworthy? Because my dad is more than just a mentor to one person. The simple fact is that he’s one of so many members in our union’s history upon whose shoulders we all stand.

Born in Jackson, Wyo., in 1928, my father didn’t have it easy. Both his parents died when he was very young, and he was raised by his grandmother and aunt. My dad loved flying and believed that being an airline pilot was the best profession in the world.

He was hired by Northwest Airlines in 1947 as a DC-3 copilot, making many sacrifices to achieve his goal of becoming an airline pilot. He started by sweeping hangar floors for Gopher Aviation in Rochester, Minn., flight instructing, and then charter flying. He was lucky—he was hired by Northwest when he was very young—but he earned his luck and then worked very diligently to ensure that the path for those who followed was better and safer. His career was one of airline building, union volunteerism, and improving safety—all with a focus on the future.

Northwest was known as “Cobra Airlines”—willing to strike if provoked. My father spent much time on the picket line during numerous strikes by the various unions at the airline, including ALPA, supporting his fellow airline colleagues. My dad taught me—his only family member to follow in his footsteps—that solidarity is the only way to achieve success and advance the profession.

When I received an employment offer from United Airlines during the pilot strike of 1985, my dad had only a few words of advice for me. “Look at the solidarity of your fellow union members and realize that an entire career is what you’re striking for,” he said. “So many of our peers have suffered over the years in this profession. Staying together is the only solace you’ll receive as you build unity to succeed as an airline pilot.”

My father retired as the No. 1 B-747 captain at Northwest in February 1988. He served his union as a Council 1 representative as well as a Negotiating Committee member and held many other volunteer positions. He also served Northwest in instructor roles as he was deeply respected by his peers. I’ve also spent many decades working on behalf of ALPA because I owe it to my father.

Giants like my dad have benefited our profession and this trade union through their hard work, countless sacrifices, and a desire to make the profession better than they found it. The lessons these amazing men and women have provided us shouldn’t be forgotten.

I was fortunate to fly on the jumpseat on his retirement flights in 1988. Accessing another airline’s jumpseat wasn’t easy back then. I cleared my father to land at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport tower on his final flight from Tokyo, Japan. Tears were shed—but we focused on celebrating his amazing career. Years later, I was privileged to have my father share my jumpseat on the B-747 during United’s “farewell tour” of the aircraft in 2017. It had all come full circle with more tears of joy.

The tears I shed today are in recognition of just one of the many members of this union who helped build the profession that we’re all passionate about. We truly stand upon the shoulders of giants, and we’re indebted to them for what they’ve shared with us: their determination to make this profession better for the next generation of airline pilots.

My dad asked for very little and gave so very much. Let’s make the giants of this union and industry proud by working together for the betterment of our profession and our industry. We can make a difference. I know my dad did.

This article was originally published in the April 2023 issue of Air Line Pilot.