Orange Schoolteacher

Last week we in Orange buried a very special lady. Her name was Emily Sterling. She was a teacher and touched many lives through her classroom.

But she was much more than that simple statement might imply. She was one of those whose students complained about her while in her classes but then came back to thank her later on. She challenged her students not only to get by but also to do their very best; not only to build a basis for a good education, but also build one for good character and a useful life.

She was proud of her students and was delighted to hear of their successes when they reached adulthood. I believe that there are other teachers like her in our school systems, but not as many as we’d prefer to have our children encounter along the way.

Her interesting and varied background contributed not only to her teaching skills but also to her community commitments. She supported many worthwhile causes financially but, more important, with her time and energy. Being a native of the area, she knew many people. We all enjoyed and admired her humor and wit, her steadfastness and courage, and her irreverent and barbed remarks about politicians and community affairs.

I’m proud to say she was my friend. I loved her and I shall miss her terribly, as will a host of others.

JAY COKER

Orange