Soperton High School Holds 75- Year Reunion

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Soperton Masonic Lodge was filled with warmth and laughter as the Soperton High School Class of 1950 came together for a 75year reunion.

The Class of 1950 holds a significant place in local and state history— not only for its size, with 76 graduates, the largest to graduate at Soperton High School, but also as the final class to complete only eleven years of school before Georgia transitioned to a twelveyear curriculum. These classmates came of age during the Great Depression and went on to build lives marked by purpose, service, and resilience.

Today, sixteen classmates are still living, and eight gathered to reflect on their journeys and share the wisdom gained across nearly a century of life. Two classmates who were unable to attend sent family in their place.

The reunion was made even more special by local caterer Hannah Autry, whose thoughtful meal created a cozy, communal atmosphere as stories were shared, memories revisited, and bonds rekindled.

Lathia Peterson Reynolds, 93, traveled from Covington with the help of her two devoted daughters. A florist for more than 50 years, she didn’t retire until the age of 87 and a half. She remains active in her church, particularly in senior ministry.

“Be happy. Keep a good attitude, stay positive, and learn to roll with the flow,” Lathia advised. “Make sure your glass continued from page

is half full instead of half empty.” In high school, she was a cheerleader and basketball player and participated in every activity that allowed her to escape class—something she jokes about even now.

Jauden Thompson, 92, lives in Perry and vividly recalls walking barefoot to school with only a handme- down raincoat. Drafted into the Army in 1953, he served in Korea and completed a remarkable 51year military career.

Even today, Jauden plays basketball for an hour four days a week. “I’ve even played with Pat Boone and Jim Walker,” he said with pride. His key to longevity? “Keep moving, exercise, don’t smoke or drink, and skip some TV.”

Togie Brantley, 92, brought humor to the gathering, recalling a teacher who once said the class had been “nice until they became seniors.” She married the year after graduation and spent her life traveling and enjoying time with her husband.

Janis Braddy Talley, 91, was the youngest classmate at the reunion and was once voted “Miss Soperton High.” She was a cheerleader and later dedicated her life to education. After attending Brewton-Parker College, she taught at Ohoopee, Lyons, and Robert Toombs Christian Academy, and now volunteers at Meadows Memorial Health as an auxiliary. “Just be dedicated to whatever you want and give your best,” she encouraged.

Condle McKenzie, 92, attended as an honorary class member. He left school to work on the farm and later earned his GED while serving during the Korean Conflict. Using the GI Bill, he graduated from Georgia Southern and became a chemistry and physics teacher for thirty years.

Condle proudly shared that he built his home on forty acres in 1991 and has lived there mortgage-free ever since. He was married to 1950 graduate Mary Kitchens for more than 75 years. “Never stop teaching,” he said, adding that he still enjoys mentoring others. One of his favorite lessons is showing students how to calculate the distance to the moon.

Shannon Phillips, 92, served four years in the U.S. Air Force, including one year overseas in Saudi Arabia. A quiet and humble presence at the reunion, Shannon expressed gratitude for his years of service.

Genie Gillis, 95, attended as a special guest. Sister to Condle and a member of the Class of 1948, Jewell smiled as she said, “The hard part about getting old is the memory.”

Genie Gillis shared a powerful story of endurance. A tough and athletic child, she was a left-handed basketball player who pushed through serious back pain in her early years to avoid burdening her family. “Young folks have a lot to learn,” she said. “You have to experience it yourself. Hard work teaches you a lot.”

Ruby Nell Braswell Jones, 92, now lives in an independent living center where she enjoys church, friendship, and time with her family. A former cheerleader and the class’s “Prettiest,” Ruby Nell remarked, “When you get old, you remember the past better than the recent.” Her favorite song, “Because He Lives, I Can Face Tomorrow”, continues to inspire her.

The Class of 1950 may have graduated long ago, but their stories remain deeply relevant. They offer encouragement, humility, and hope. They are proof that a life well lived comes not from ease but from perseverance, connection, and purpose.