REMINISICING
WITH RINEHART
RINEHART CHEWNING

Several years ago when I began writing my column, I made a vow to myself that I would never bore my readers by writing about my family. I suppose you might say I have had to back track to some extent concerning this statement, primarily because of the beautiful tribute paid to me by our four children in an article The Times and Democrat published recently.

I feel that Billie and I could be classified as millionaires when it comes to our children. Before I refer to each one of the four with some remarks that I feel are timely, I would like to clear the air by saying we don’t think they’re perfect and have never thought that because they have all made the kind of mistakes that Billie and I have made over the years.

I have never tried to re-create my life in any of them. I have, however, hoped they would put back into the system more than they have used without ever making financial matters a priority.

It’s amazing how four children can come from the same nest and yet be so entirely different. Our first born, Cheryl, has been employed by the Department of Natural Resources for about 15 years. She’s also a member of the S.C. Air National Guard, where she has served for 27 years. The biggest delight in her life is her eight grandchildren who she lives and breathes for. She’s a lot like her mother in her good housekeeping and personal matters. She is a member of Shandon Baptist Church, where she is active in the nursery department.

Our second daughter, Carol Suzanne (Tootie), was born 16 months later. She’s a registered nurse, having completed her training at the old Orangeburg School of Nursing. She also served several years in the Air Force and was discharged with the rank of captain. Also a good cook, Tootie keeps herself and her house like her mother. She’s employed by the Department of Juvenile Justice and is also a certified massage therapist, working for a Dr. Lee several afternoons a week. Tootie is very active in her church, Riverland Hills Baptist, and is also a member of the choir.

Our only son, George Thomas (Tommy), graduated from Lander College and is employed as the director of human resources at the Tribble Center for the mentally handicapped. He looks at his employment as a ministry and is active in Bounty Land Baptist Church, along with his wife of 20-some years, Kim. A dedicated family man. Tommy is especially proud of his heritage.

Last but not least is Billie, who is named for her grandfather, William Bull. She is a cosmetologist and barber. I have jokingly referred to her as the last of “the Mohicans” because she’s the last one. Billie is an active member of Holly Hill United Methodist Church, and she’s also involved with a catering company in Columbia called Southern Delight, where she works part-time. She would rather be in the yard working than cooking, but she does enjoy making pecan pies. Billie attended Lander College for two years.

From an economic standpoint, our children would be considered middle-class and all-American. As their father, however, I’m proudest of their involvement in the churches of their choice, their freedom from chemical addiction and their dedication to their families. I’m proudest of all of the 10 grandchildren and the eight great-grands they have given us.

Lest we forget ...

T&D Columnist Rinehart Chewning is a long-time resident of Holly Hill. His column appears every Saturday.

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