Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle — Our 67th McCaulley Homecoming Reunion!

October 29, 2025

What a weekend to remember! On Saturday, October 18, 2025, nearly 100 alumni and friends filled the McCaulley Recreational Community Center for the 67th McCaulley High School Homecoming Reunion — a day full of laughter, memories, and community pride.
McCaulley’s very first Homecoming was held in 1958, thanks to Beth Hawkins and James Lawlis, who wanted to bring classmates together and celebrate school spirit. Sixty-seven years later, that same tradition continues stronger than ever!
This year’s committee was led by Charlotte Griffin Godlove (’69) as President, Randy Williams (’73) as Treasurer, and Gordon Pippin (’83) — with Steve Estes (’90) serving as our lively Master of Ceremonies.
The afternoon began with the Pledge of Allegiance, recognition of all veterans and active military, the singing of the school song, and a heartfelt prayer by James Jeffrey (’80) for rekindled friendships and blessings over the meal.
One of the most emotional moments came during the “Special Honors Ceremony”, remembering beloved educators and staff who shaped McCaulley’s legacy.  Plaques were presented for:
·         J.D. & Billie Hargrove: Superintendent & Teacher
·         T.E. & Lois Green: Principal & Teacher
·         Orville Hill: Asst. Principal & Teacher
·         Dicey Kemp: Teacher
·         Barbara Craig Kelly: Asst. Treasurer of School Funds
·         Homer Dalton “Bill” Young:  Custodian
·         Mrs. Sam Cox: Cafeteria Worker
·         Mrs. Zenobia Current:  Cafeteria Worker
·         Mrs. Ellen Galloway:  Cafeteria Worker
·         Mrs. Lorene Dowell & Family:  Property & School Memorabilia Managers
Duplicate plaques will be displayed in the McCaulley Trophy Room for future generations.
✨ Fun Awards:
Oldest Ex: Lorene Dowell (’56)

  • Youngest Ex: Shane Burns (’87)
  • Traveled Farthest: John & Donna Perales (Millington, TN — Class of ’74)
  • Longest Married: George & Joan Decker (Classes of ’54 & ’55) — 71 years!
  • Most Grandkids: Julia Hodges (’73) — 13 total!
  • Funniest/Jokester: Randy Kelly (’69)
  • Fastest Car in High School: David Estes (’69)
  • Most Classmates in Attendance: Class of 1954! 🎉
 Each received a certificate and gift bag for their fun and well-earned honors.
 💫 Every athletic team was recognized by decade — along with cheerleaders, pom, and pep squad members. Past Valedictorians, Salutatorians, and Homecoming Kings & Queens stood proudly to be honored once again.
 👑 The 2025 Homecoming King and Queen were John Perales (’74) and Charlotte Griffin Godlove (’69) — congratulations to both!
 Voted in as committee members for 2026 are: Vickie Jeffrey, Tiny Pace, Patricia Self Rains, Gordon Pippin, Randy Williams, and Lorene Dowell.
 Special thanks to Gordon Pippin for restoring and relocating the 1978 Memorial & School Bell, preserving an important piece of school history!
 🎟️ A shotgun and rifle raffle organized by Randy Williams (’73) was a big hit, along with nearly 40 door prizes, including a $250 Beef Bag from Piper Feed & Supply in Hamlin as the grand prize.
 🙏 Mrs. Godlove expressed heartfelt thanks to generous local businesses: The T Post Western Tack, Quality Flowers, Subway Sandwich Shop, Rotan Mercantile, Embroidery Ink of Roby, South Touch Floral of Rotan, M&C Lumber, Mayberry Diner, and Walmart in Stamford. Appreciation also goes to the families of Randy Kelly, Gordon Pippin, David Estes, and Randy Williams for cooking brisket & sausage, and to the wonderful McCaulley ladies for all the sides and desserts — making the meal completely free for everyone.
 🎞️ The theme “Remember When” brought nostalgia to life through posters and photo boards of classmates on school trips, bonfires, the old Hamlin theatre, ads from yearbooks of businesses past and displays of letter jackets, cheer uniforms, pom outfits, trophies, and vintage memorabilia. Guests loved the photo booth, balloon arch, and shadow boxes of old toys, books, comics, and candy — a true walk down memory lane!
 Mrs. Godlove extended deep thanks to all classmates and family who helped with decorating, setup, and cleanup — teamwork that truly showed the heart of McCaulley.
 💛 The reunion ended with laughter, hugs, and new memories made. Many said it was one of the best reunions — proof that McCaulley pride and friendship only grows stronger with time.