Page 262 - lake-city-florida-a-sesquicentennial-tribute-(h-morris-williams-kevin-mccarthy)-2009

Lake City, Florida: A Sesquicentennial Tribute (2009) H. Morris Williams, Dr. Kevin M. McCarthy

Shortly thereafter, Bob, age 90, became very ill and was
hospitalized at Lake City Medical Center. When Coach Hyder heard
of Bob’s illness, he wrote him this handwritten letter: “Dear General
Harkness, Let me begin by expressing how honored we of VHS were
to meet you and have you as part of our captain’s coin toss to begin
the renewing of the Lake City -Valdosta rivalry. Your presence added
dignity and class to the game and made us feel proud to be part of
such a fine tradition. We have heard of your illness and want you to
know that we are all praying for your speedy recovery. Next year we
want you to be our honored guest at the game in Valdosta. May God
bless you real good, General Harkness. Get well soon and we look
forward to seeing you in Valdosta next football season.”

General Harkness did in fact recover from his illness, but later
got sick again and died. Ironically, just afterwards, Coach Hyder, at
the peak of his coaching career, died suddenly one day at school
while he was counseling students.

Valdosta High School has a long tradition of winning.

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