Legend, Life Well Lived, Success

Success, how do you define it?  Webster’s Dictionary definition is 1a: Degree or measure of succeeding. 1b: Favorable or desired outcome; also, the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence. 2. One that succeeds.

Zig Ziglar in his book, Born to Win, argues that success cannot be defined in one word, or one sentence, but instead it is comprised of many things. I believe Gordon Boone would agree with that, but he would also state that life’s ultimate success is about being spiritually fit, loving and serving God, and sharing that love with others.  

Gordon was an educator. He loved and cared for his students, considering each and every one that came through his class as one of his own. He lovingly taught for 30+ years.  One of his favorite activities with his students was planting a raised bed garden. He instructed the children on how to plant the seeds, water, fertilize, weed, and tend the garden. The grand finale being harvest time. And, oh how his students loved this!! 

I wanted to write something meaningful in tribute to a life well lived; to a successful life; something that would encourage and motivate others to seek success, but to measure it according to their passion for their work and life. Not necessarily by tangibles.  I think the few excerpts below (I just didn't have the space to capture them all for this article), taken from Gordon’s Facebook pages after his passing say more than I could ever say about success in one’s profession and a life well lived.  You will note that many students referred to Gordon as “Papa”.  Some referred to him as Santa. He played Santa for many functions in his community over the years and would serve as Santa for photo ops for families in his community. Never charging. 

Sir, I want to say thank you . As your student in the 4th grade, you showed many if not all the fun in learning a craft you developed called science. It became my favorite class to be a part of just to see all the different ideas and assignments we would have each day not to mention your jokes . You knew just how to make any person feel better about themselves especially your students you considered not one but all your family . I will always remember that . But what I will always hold close is the knowledge you gave me about enjoying life and not taking it for granted . To one of the greats, it was an honor to be your student . I love you Mr. B.

Boy, we lost one of the greatest men to have ever lived. He taught both of my brothers and myself.

Mr. Boone

Impacted every single one of his students in such a huge way. He loved each and every one of his “kids.” And when his kids had kids, he loved them too  (He taught three generations of children in our community)

For my little one’s first Christmas, he willingly put the Santa suit back on for our official picture. SO much better than going to the mall. Papa Boone will always be the best Santa Claus in my eyes, along with every other Kellett kid’s, I’m sure. I’m thankful to have that memory to keep forever.

Kellett kids, lets continue to make him proud every single day. We have one of the best guardian angels watching over us.

Love you forever, Papa

Mr. Boone was a wonderful man, and he will never be forgotten. He is the one teacher in school that had the biggest impact on my life! Love and miss you Mr. Boone.

 Take your rest Mr.

Gordon Boone

... Thank you so much for introducing me to the love of math. You were more than just a teacher. You were a great man of faith and I’m honored to have called you, my friend.

Everyone knew who “Mr. Boone” was. I never knew him as teacher, but I knew the impact he had on everyone’s lives. A kind and gentle spirit that loved his students, he wanted and meant for them to do well and be studious and make something out of their lives. My only regret would be that I wish he could have continued his mission to touch a multitude of students in this day and time. I know he could have made great strides changing today’s generations ... such a great leader, kind spirit and full of love for every student. Many loved you Mr. Boone you will be sorely missed by many.

 Rest in peace, my sweet brother. I hope to make you proud every single day.  Thank you for the love shown to so many, thank you for living your life so well. Thank you for showing us what true success in life really looks like.

We  miss you.  May the circle be unbroken. 

Gordon Cromer Boone, Junior November 30, 1948 - March 17, 2021