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Willie Goble Loftin       Family letters are always so special.  They show a part of the writer's life during the time they were living - as they talk about family, friends, work, sickness and church.   Willie Goble Loftin and Sam William Loftin         Willie Aleen Goble married Sam William Loftin in 1942 and had two children - Billy Ray and Curtis.   Name Birth Death Spouse William Ray Loftin 1943 2005 Mattie Diane Self Curtis Dean Loftin 1953   Carolyn Janet Weeks           Willie's parents were poor share-croppers and they usually lived in a tenant house and worked in someone else's field for a share of the crops.  Willie was third-from-the-youngest of 14 children (with the youngest sister dying when she was less than a year old).  Even though the children went to school, working in the field was definitely more important.  Willie and her sister Helen, both, eventually quit school in 8th grade.  With her birthday being in December, she was older than most of the other students in her class - and she also repeated a grade more than likely from missing school.  She & Helen bought their school books and had planned to go back to school but decided to go to work instead.  Willie was 15.    The following letters have been transcribed as they were written - with incorrect spelling and grammar - to give you a unique glimpse into Willie's life in 1974 - 1975.  She was only working part-time due to the need to stay home with Sam, who was continuously in and out of the hospital.  Sam was receiving a meager disability check from Social Security and they had a son in college.   After Curtis graduated from Bunker Hill High School in 1971, he went off to Appalachian State University in Boone, NC, that fall.  Curtis came home from ASU every weekend but one during his Freshman year - less often during his Sophomore year - only for holidays his Junior and Senior years.   The main part of the communication between Curtis and his parents during those years was in the form of letter - postage was only 10 cent.  Curtis kept the letters his mother wrote during his Senior year.  This page gives an opportunity to share those with Willie's family - especially her children and grandchildren.     Curtis     Appalachian State University, Freshman 1971 - 1972, Sophomore 1972 - 1973, Junior 1973 - 1974         # 1 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2815 Boone, NC 28608 September 16, 1974 Dear Curtis   I thought I would write and tell you your Dad is filling (feeling) better.  I just boild (boiled) him an egg and gave him some milk and crackers.  I don't know if it is the pills you went and got are (or) not.  He started moving gas threw his bowls (bowels).  It is God will regardless how he gets better, I diden't (didn't) won't (want) you to worry.  So I thought I would write and tell you the good news.  Besure (Be sure) and pay your ins. (insurance).  I will sent (send) you $10 Fri. (Friday).  I will send you $10 every 2 weeks if possible, if your Dad gets along all right.  Your Dad and I love you more than you will every (ever) know.  It is lonesome when you leave.  Bill (William Ray Loftin), Diane and kids were down for a while - didn't stay to (too) long.  Your Dad said tell you he was filling (feeling) better and that he beleaves (believes) that medcine (medicine) you went and got was going to help him.  If he gets better we will be seeing you a lot this year.  I am sorry we wasn't better company for Carylon (Carolyn), Bill (Bill Shearin) and you, for we love you (your) friends very much.  Write and tell me how things goes Tue. (Tuesday) worther (whether) you get payed (paid) are (or) not.  I will write and tell you when you get your money here and how much.  Besure (Be sure) and study hard and make good grades.  Tell Mrs. Horton Sam & I said Hi and that we would rember (remember) tham when we kill are (our) hog & Beff (beef).  Sam is watchen (watching) his animal show (on TV) he is enjoying it pretty good.  I will half (have) to close and get ready to go to bed so I can go to work in the morning.  I appreciate what you and Carylon (Carolyn) and Bill did for us Mowing the yard and Carylon (Carolyn) taking me to the Hospital.  She reminds me of Diane a lot.  Sam and I like her a lot. and for you making all the trips you did to the Hospital I know you didn't have much of a week end.  Hope the next time will be better.   Love you, Mom & Dad   Notes: * Sam was sick for a number of years when Curtis was in high school and college - and even before then.  He suffered from emphysema after many years of smoking cigarettes.  He was eventually diagnosed with cancer.  * Bill Shearin was Curtis' Senior roommate at Appalachian.  Bill was from Warrenton, NC. * Hardin Park Elementary School was the school where Curtis did his teaching internship when he was a Junior.  He formed such a good relationship with his supervising teacher Mrs. Elizabeth Horton that he managed to get a work-study position at the school for the first semester of his Senior year - again working with Mrs. Horton in the 6th grade.           Sam & Willie - Spring 1971     # 2 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 September 21, 1974   Dear Curtis We got your letter yesterday - was glad to hear from you.  Your Dad is still doing fine.  He carry (carries) his praying hank (prayer handkerchief or prayer cloth) every where he goes.  He even sleep(s) with it.  He has changed in a lot of ways.  I told him you would be proud of him.  Pop (Martin Luther Goble) got home from the hospital yesterday.  We went out last night to see him.  He is braking (breaking).  Helen (Mary Helen Goble Sigmon) has quit work to stay home with him.  She said the Dr. (Doctor) said he would be in and out (of) the hospital man times the next year.  I am sending you $10.  Would like to send you more but don't have it.  I am off next week, Claude (Yount) said he would try to work me 2 days because it is my waiting perid (period).  I will sighn (sign) up (for unemployment) but won't get any thing.  Well I have been down pulling corn, pulled 2 socks this eving (evening), been pulling 1 a day.  Going to pull the rest of it next week and cut off the stocks for the cows.  Sam bought him another cow.  It is a big cow 875 lb.  payed $130 for it.  You had better lock the car next week when you go home with Bill (Bill Shearin).  Don't you drive are (our) car down there.  When you get your check, I will write you and tell you.  I gess (guess) Bill (William Ray Loftin) and Diane and kids has gone to the beach.  I got the rest of your socks.  6 pair of black.  When are you coming home agian.  Let me now (know) before you come.  You can bring Bill & Carylon (Carolyn) if you wish.  I hope it will turn out better then the last (time).  Sorry thigs (things) was like they were.  Sam is filling (feeling) fine and eating pretty good.  He got dow to 118 lb.  I will half (have) to close so I can go to bed and get up early and go and warsh (wash clothes at the laundry mat).  Mrs. Stewart (Mrs. Harry Stewart - Flora Edwards Stewart) said to tell you "Hello" and that she missed seeing you bet she understood.l  I will see you soon.  Write and tell me all the news if you have time.  We are going to curch (church) Sun (Sunday) if it is God (God's) will.  Where are you going to curch (church)? Love Mom & Dad   PS If you haven't bought your insurance be sure and bye (buy) it.  Ask Carylon (Carolyn) if she got a policy so you will no (know) what you are doing.  I am sending your bank statement.     Notes: * A prayer cloth is mentioned in the New Testament - and is a cloth or handkerchief that has been prayed over and then give to someone who is sick as a reminder of the prayer. * Pop (or Martin Luther Goble) was Willie father.  He lived with Sam and Willie for many years, but when Sam's health declined, he went to live with Helen (Mary Helen Goble Sigmon Willie's sister).  Martin died just a few years later on 09 Apr 1979. * Curtis drove Sam & Willie's car to Appapachian State University for his Senior year (1974 - 1975). * Bill Shearin was Curtis' roommate during his Senior year at Appalachian.  They had met the previous year and had chosen to room together.  Bill was from Warrenton, NC, and was a Believer (Christian). * Bill Loftin (William Ray Loftin) was Willie's older son and Curtis' brother. * Carolyn (Carolyn Janet Weeks) was a friend of Curtis' from Appalachian.  They had met at a Charismatic Bible Study in 1972 and quickly became friends.  Carolyn was from Raleigh, NC.  Carolyn eventually became Mrs. Curtis Loftin. * Mrs. Stewart (Flora Edwards Stewart) was the Loftin's next-door neighbor.  She kept Curtis when he was a baby and was like a 2nd mother to him. * Curtis and Carolyn attended Greenway Baptist Church during their Senior year at Appalachian.     Curtis in his dorm room 1974     # 3 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 September 25, 1974   Dear Curtis, Thougt I would write you and tell you some of the news.  Beverly (Beverly Ann Loftin) is a cheerleader.  There was 42 went out for it.  They pick(ed) 5 or 6 out of the 42.  Bill (William Ray Loftin) said that one (of the) girl('s) mother picked Beverly up one eveing (evening) and had her Daughter and Beverly to practice for about 2 hrs.  The girl('s) mother use(d) to be a cheerleader.  The hight school picked them.  Sam & I are going to (the) Hickory cow sale Thu (Thursday morning) if it is the good Lords (Lord's) will.  He wants me to go begin (being) I never have been to one.  Mr. Lynch is in the hospital.  He had a (an) oppration (operation) like Daddy (Martin Luther Goble) did.  Helen (Mary Helen Goble Sigmon) said they thought at first he might have cancer.  She said she never did hear worther (whether) he did or not.  She said he had really lost lot of waite (weight) and was real yellow.  Vick (Victor Kirksey) is in the hospital to (too).  He has newmonnia (pneumonia).  Sam said tell you send what Hall (Dorm) you are on and what your room number is and your telephone number.  I tried to call you Sat. (Saturday) morning - got a bizzy (busy) sighneal (signal) 2 times.  Diden't (Didn't) no (know) if I had the right number are (or) not.  It is really cold down here.  About 43 (degrees) last night.  I worked today and am going to work tomorrow and them I will rest.  I think we are going to be off again Monday.  I will half (have) to close.  Hope to see you soon.  If your bring any body with you when you come in, let me know in time to clean up a little.  Read your Bible and pray and study hard and make good grades.  See you soon.  We both love you very much. Love Mon & Dad   Notes: * Beverly Loftin is Willie's granddaughter - daughter of William Ray Loftin & Mattie Diane Self * Mr. Lynch (Thomas Lynch) - an older gentleman and member of Sam & Willie's church (Mathis Chapel Baptist Church) * Victor Kirksey is another older gentleman and member of Sam & Willie's church     # 4 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 September 30, 1974   Hi Curtis Got your letter Fri. (Friday). Was glad to hear from you.  Bill (William Ray Loftin) & Diane  and kids was down this eveing (evening).  She had a big dish full of persimon (persimmon) pulp out of the persimons (persimmons) I had picked up.  I will make you a persimon pudding for you when you come home.  I have been putting lots in the freezer.  I scatterd (scattered) 6 hundred pd. (pounds) of fertelizer (fertilizer) Fri. (Friday).  My arms are still sore.  I pulled corn and a little bit of every thing.  Sam really beliefs (blieves) in working me.  That kinds (kind) of work is for a man.  It is to (too) hard for me.  Are you coming home this weekend?  If so, write and tell me if you are bringing any one with you.  Besure (Be sure) and pay that insurance this week for that is the firs think your Dad will ask you.  It is very imporant (important) that you pay it for you don't no (know) when you might half (have) to use it, and we don't have the money to pay hospital bills.  I hope you had a good trip when you went home with Bill (Bill Shearin), and I am sure you did.  What time did you get back Sun. (Sunday)?  Besure (Be sure) and study hard for that history test this week and for your math.  I hope and pray you will pass everything and I am sure you will.  Tall Carylon (Carolyn) & Bill Hello for us.  Beverly (Beverly Loftin) said this eveing (evening) she ment (meant) to call her boy friend.  I told her she was to (too) young to have a boy friend - that you was 21 and she diden't (didn't) want you to have one.  She said she was afriad you would get married and move away and she woulden (wouldn't) get to see you.  I told her regardless who you married, you would half (have) to go where you got a job teaching.  She said you could teach up where she goes to school, that they diden't (didn't) have a nuff (enough) teachers up there.  She is really afraid of losing you.  She wanted to know if you was coming home next weekend.  When every (Whenever)  you get your money, I wont (want) you to come in by your self so you can look and see what kind of car you can find for the money you get.  I still hope you will get a new car, even if I half (have) to help you a little.  The yard hasen't (hasn't) been mowed since you all mowed it.  It will be ready for you all when you come in Fri. (Friday).  What time will you get in.  I will be looking for you Fri. if nothing happens.  I am off again tomorrow but will go back Tues. (Tuesady).  I will half (have) to close and get my dishes warshed (washed).  I will see you soon.  We love you very much and pray for you.  Your Dad is still doing fine. Love Mom & Dad P.S. Pay insurance for I am putting $50 of your money I owe you in the bank Fri. (Friday).  Have Carylon (Carolyn) to pay it for you.   Notes: * This was more than likely 6 forty pound bags of fertilizer * Beverly is Willie's granddaughter and daughter of William Ray Loftin       Fall 1974 - Carolyn lived off campus but Curtis still lived in the dorm         # 5 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 October 16, 1974   Hi Curtis How are you getting along?  How did you get along on your test?  I hope and pray you made good.  I looked for a letter from you.  I told your Dad you was proubly (probably) to (too) bussey (busy) to write.  I am sending you $10.  We are having lots of exciting going on. Somebody broke in June Robson (Robinson's) mill last (night) and a funture (furniture) place between here and Claremont.  They stole Bob (Bob Style's) car batter out of his car.  They tried to get Sam (Sam's) battery but they diden't (didn't) get it out.   The hud (hood) was open(ed) on it.  I don't know if we got up and turned on the light and scard (scared) them off are (or) what.  They just told on the news that Gerald Killian  escaped from prison this eving (evening).  I gess (guess) there will be more stilling (stealing) going up.  5 negro(s) held up Carlos Lowrance last night.  They diden't (didn't) get but $2 dollars off of him.  He had been over to the Gilberts.  They held him up with a gun in behind the stores.  Catawba sure is getting mean.  Your Dad is getting along pretty good.  He was sick Tue. night.  I took him to the hospital.  He got a shot anc come back home.  He has been doing fine every (ever) since.  You come home in two weeks from know (now) and I will take you shopping for your Chrismas (Christmas).  We will go to Kings and see if we can find you a coat and I will bye (buy) you something else latter (later).  If you have time, you can write me next week, if not it will be all right.  Study hard and make good grade(s).  We are praying for you.  Henry Clay Gabriel is going to give Sam some papers for Carylon (Carolyn) to fill out.  He said there was always somebody getting pregnant and having to quit.  I just hope and pray you and Carylon (Carolyn) both gets you a job teaching.  How is every thing at Harding (Hardin) Park?  Did you go home with Bill (Shearin)?  You can come home before 2 weeks if you wont (want) to but I can't take you shopping untill (until) then.  You are free to come home any time you wont (want) to.  The old sow had 10 pigs this week.  Your check hasen't (hasn't) come yet.  I will let you know when it come(s).  Besure (Be sure) and go to church Sun. and I will do the same if it is God('s) will.  I will half (have) to close.  Hope to see you soon.  Your Dad and I love you very much.  Tell Carylon (Carolyn) Hello. Love Mom & Dad   Notes: * June Robinson was a neighbor * Bob Styles was the boyfriend of Ruth Jones Fulbright - another neighbor * Gerald Killian was another neighbor - about 25+ years old * Henry Clay Gabriel was on the Catawba County School Board - the papers were a job application for Catawba County Schools * Hardin Park Elementary School was the school where Curtis did his teaching internship when he was a Junior.  He formed such a good relationship with his supervising teacher that he managed to get a work-study position at the school for the first quarter of his Senior year - again working with Mrs. Elizabeth Horton in the 6th grade. * Because of Sam's disability, Curtis received a small check, too, while he was at Appalachian. * Willie didn't learn to drive until her late 40s.  Neighbors and Curtis had taken Sam to the hospital when he had one of his "spells" but when Curtis left for college, Willie could no longer postpone learning how to drive.     Curtis outside of Hardin Park Elementary School, Boone, NC     # 6 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 October 30, 1974   Hi Curtis Thought I would drop you a few line to say hi.  How is every thing going for you?  Your check was $68 after they took out (deductions).  It was $62.58.  You still haven't got no money here yet.  If you don't hear anything bye (by) Sat. (Saturday), Diane (Diane Loftin - Curtis' sister-in-law) is going to call that woman and she is going to check in on it.  She is going to call her Mon. (Monday).  Tom Weatherspoon (Witherspoon) wonts (wants) to see you his wife('s) car a 69 Buck, $11 hundred ($1100).  I don't think you want it.  Your Dad said you coulden (couldn't) aford (afford) a new one.  I want you to get a new one.  If you half (have) to put the money in the bank for a while, you can drive our car like you have been.  Untill (Until) you see your way out (to get it paid for) and maybe you can get you a new one before graduation.  Hard times is really hear (here) I am afraid.  I heard they were going to lay off 40 where I work.  If they do I figuare (figure) it will be thos that don't get production.  And some of those that stands around doing nothing.  I will be glad when you graduate and get you a job teaching.  I am praying you will pass every thing and get your applcation (application) in.  Your Dad is still doing all right.  He goes back to the Dr. (doctor) Fri. (Friday) to see if they are going to opprate (operate) are (or) not.  Miss Stewart (Mrs. Harry Stewart - Flora Edwards Stewart) said she wanted to see you this time.  You are going to be pretty busy, going shopping and taking me to get grocries (groceries).  It makes Sam sick to go in those stores.  I am hoping and praying Sam will go with me to curch (church) tomorrow night.  We are having Bible reading morning and night and alter pry of a night and a pray of a morning.  I really love the Lord with all my heart.  Sam sold all the hogs today except one I hope.  The man is to come back tomorrow and get them and pay for them.  That will take lots of hard work off of me.  I wont (won't) have but one to feed and look after.  We have are (our) bull up to kill.  We are going to kill him in about 2 weeks.  Bill (William Ray Loftin) and kids came down yesterday and put him up.  He had been in Lee pasture (Lee Robinson's pasture) for 3 or 4 weeks.  Your Dad said drive slow and take it easy when you come in Fri. (Friday).  I will half (have) to close.  See you Frid. (Friday).  Study hard and be a good boy which I am sure you will be.  We love you. Love Mom & Dad   Notes: * Mrs. Stewart (Flora Edwards Stewart) was the Loftin's next-door neighbor.  She kept Curtis when he was a baby and was like a 2nd mother to him.     # 7 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 November 8, 1974   Dear Curtis   (Wednesday) Miss Stewart (Mrs. Harry Stewart - Flora Edwards Stewart) just called and said she talked to you.  We were at home.  Sorry I didn't get to talk to you but that is all right.  We put $150 in checking for you.  That is what she said you wanted.  I made jelly and jam yesterday.  Have been raking leafs (leaves).  Got the front and sides - like (lack) the back yet.  Which is an much as what I have all ready (already) raked.  Have you been taking test(s) every day like you said you was going to do?  What did you make on your last History paper?  Are (Or) do you know.  Come home any time you wont (want) to.  You don't half (have) to wait till Thanksgiving.  You can just get in the car and take off.  Sam just isn't able to make the trip up there, for he lays around and rests a lot.  Yesterday was election (day).  We went and voted.  We split are (our) tickets.  I voted for Jake Abernathy for Sheriff he is a Rupulbican (Republican) and James Broyhill is a R. (Republican).  The rest I think was D. (Democrats).  Just about every thing went D. (Democrat)  When you come home again hunt up the hangers and bring (them), for I need them to put your shirts and paints (pants) on.    (Thursday) I get to work tomorrow.  I am glad.  It will help out a little.  I got most of my leaf (leaves) rake(d).  I will finish them tomorrow.  I have enjoyed being home this week, got lots of work done that needs to be done.  Will clean windows the next time I am off.  I will half (have) to close.   See you soon.  Study hard and make good grades.  I will be praying for you.  We love you very much.  I don't have any money to send you.  Will send you $10 next Fri. (Friday).  Will give it to you if you come home.   Love Mom & Dad   Notes: * Jake Abernathy was a neighbor from the Catawba area * Sam and Willie were both registered Democrats and voted that way until Sam's death on 18 Sep 1979 although they frequently voted for both Democratic and Republican candidates.  After Sam's death, Willie voted Republican.     # 8 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 November 15, 1974   Dear Curtis   How are you getting along?  Fine I hope.  Gess (Guess) you have been studing (studying) hard.  Have you finished your math yet?  I hope and pray you have so you can start studing (studying) for your Finals.  Is it snowing up there?  Miss Robson (Mrs. Lee Robinson - Bessie Robinson) said she heard one road at Ashville was past traving (traveling) and that it was snowing up there.  Be careful if you drive.  It is ranning (raining) here.  If it is bad tomorrow I am not going to drive to work.  I have been driving to work, come home at dinner and feed the hogs and go strat (straight) from work to the hospital.  Sam is still in the " (hospital).  They still don't know what is the matter with hem.  They have different ideas all 4 Dr. (Doctors).  They want him to go to Winston to a stumic (stomach) special and stay 2 days and come back there 2 (to) be opprated (operated) on.  Dr. Dillon said he stayed up half of the night Tue. (Tuesday) going over Sam('s) records.  Dr. Dillon, Dr. Dickey, Dr Boyns and Dr. Davis has been having meeting(s) and decusson (discussion) on Sam.  Dr. Dickey had Sam up walking him around yesterday when he was sick.  Billy (William Ray Loftin, Jr.) trip and fell thru the storm door yesterday.  Bill (William Ray Loftin, Sr.) said it took 5 stitches to sow (sew) it up.  But he is getting along fine.  And me, I am just fine.  Thank God.  God has really been good to me.  Are you better with your cold.  I hope and pray so.  Gess (Guess) you have been staying up late this week.  I have been going to bed early.  7:30 till (to) 8 (8:00) most of the time.  Tell Carylon (Carolyn) and Bill hi.  I am sending you  $10.  Will see you next Fri (Friday) are (or) when every (whenever) you get off.  We love you a lot.  We will be praying for you and you pray for us.   Love Mom & Dad   Notes: * Lee Robinson was a friend of Sam's and a near neighbor.  Lee & Bessie lived on Hot Rod Rd - just off of Hwy 10 - and had a big farm down there.  Sam owned 10 acres of property adjoining Lee. * Baptist Hospital was located in Winston-Salem, NC, and Sam was there several times. * Dr. Dillon was Sam's doctor * Billy (or William Ray Loftin, Jr.) is Billy Ray's son and grandson of Sam & Willie     Curtis - Fall 1974     # 9 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 December 14, 1974   Hi Curtis   How are you getting along?  Fine I hope.  Sam was kindly (kind of) sick yesterday & today.  He took his pills and got over it.  I think God has touched his body and heald (healed) it.  I am trusting in the Lord he is a great big God.  We had our Christmas dinner today.  J. D. had me to say the blessing again.  Some of them really did look when he called for me to come up there (and pray) where him and Betty was.  He wanted me up close to the table.  Betty Lyrley (Lyerly) thanked me after lunch.  Helen (Mary Helen Goble Sigmon) gave me $10 for you.  I have $20 for you for Christmas and we have $10 for Carylon (Carolyn).  Diane & Bill is bying (buying) Carylon (Carolyn) something for Xmas (Christmas).  Well how did your interview go?  Did you take the job are (or) not?  It is up to you to make your own mind (up).  Are (Our) mill is closing down.  We are moving to Homespun.  I am going down there if it is the good Lords (Lord's) will.  Every body is not going to get to go, just the oldest hands (workers).  Will you be in (coming home) next Fri (Friday) night.  Let us no (know) so we can meet you in Newton.  I am sending you $10.  Your check was $68.50.  We put it in the bank.  Don't forget to get your check for teaching.    I got my bonus for Xmas (Christmas) today and it was $118.55.  I cleared $96.82.  That was pretty good.  Vicky Drum Goble has got twin boys.  The curch (church) made up and gave us $62.  Sam paid it on his hospital bills.  Gevia (Elgevia Goble Eggers) brought me out 2 cases of canned stuff and a big bag of frozen stuff.  I am not on starvation but we took it.  I will half (have) to close.  See you soon.   Love Mom & Dad   Notes: * J.D. was Willie's boss at the place where she worked - boarding socks * Helen (Mary Helen Goble Sigmon) was Willie's sister and Curtis' aunt * Curtis was offered a teaching position at a community college in the mountains before he graduated from Appalachian - but decided not to take it and opted to teach children rather than adults. * Curtis rode the Trailways bus backwards and forth from Newton to Boone for the first three years he was at Appalachian.  He drove Sam & Willie's car his last year - but still rode the bus home during bad weather. * Curtis was in a work-study program the first semester of his last year at Appalachian.  He was working with Mrs. Elizabeth Horton in the 6th grade at Hardin Park Elementary.  He was able to earn a small salary while still attending Appalachian. * Vicky Drum was a friend of Curtis' from the Balls Creek Campground.  Her parents tented two tents above Sam and Willie.  She and her sisters Janice & Peggy were good friends for a season.  Vicky married Paul Goble & Janice married David Woodring - friends of Curtis' from Bunker Hill High School.  Vicky, Janice and Peggy went to Bandys High School.  The girls and Curtis were riding around the square in Newton when they first met the other Bunker Hill boys.  Peggy married Richard Sherrill - another friend of Curtis' from the Balls Creek Campground. * Gevia (Elgevia Goble Eggers) was Willie's youngest living sister.     # 10 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 January 16, 1975 Thur (Thursday) Night   Dear Curtis   Hi.  How is every thing?  Got your letter yesterday and one today.  Was glad to hear from you.  Your Dad is in the hospital.  He went yesterday morning.  He has been sick every (ever) since Sun (Sunday) eve (evening) of (off) and on so he went yesterday to stay.  They are giving him glu co (glucose).  He is filling (feeling) better.  I figuar (figure) he will get to come home tomorrow.  He has lost more weight.  He just weigh(s) 114 pd (pounds) know (now).  I told God last night if he would hill (heal) him, I would go to church Sun (Sunday) morning, Sun (Sunday) night and Wed (Wednesday) night.  I put it all on the line to God.  I am having morning Bible at the table and am having an alter (altar) prayer know (now) at night.  So you can expect that when you come home.  We use(d) to do all that and more and I am going to start doing it again.  I was happy when I did it.  A am happy know (now) but I have lost out on lots of blessing(s) and I have not been doing nothing for God.  All I did was asking God to give me something, such as to hill (heal) your Dad, give you good grades, and take care of Sam, you and Bill and kids and Diane and just close people.  I just got threw (through) moping and waxing setting room (floor).  Have got the radio on listing (listening) to Clay Wells.  I have got to clean up here in the kitchen and I might do my irnoning (ironing).  Tell Carylon (Carolyn Janet Weeks), Bill (Bill Shearin) & Bill (Bill Mitchell) and Ann (Elizabeth Ann Hamilton) hello.  We like Carylon (Carolyn) a lot.  I you marry her I hope she will make you a good wife and you her a good husband.  And I am sure that is the way it will be.  I hope you and her will be happy as Sam & I have been.  Sam has been a very good husband.  I have been happy with him.  I am proud of your B on your mid term. Pray and read your Bible and be good and study hard and God will help you.  Bring your tape player when you come home.  Your Dad orded (ordered) you a tape something about the Deppressing in the Bible I haven't heard it yet.  I will half (have) to close.  See you the 2 of Nov (November) if it is the good Lord('s) will.  Your Dad and I love you very much.   Love Mom & Dad   Notes: * Curtis, Carolyn, Bill (Bill Shearin), Bill (Bill Mitchell) and Ann (Elizabeth Ann Hamilton) were very close friends during their years at Appalachian - spending lots of time together - eating together - praying together.     Curtis & Ann Hamilton with "the group" at Price Park on the Blueridge Parkway Blowing Rock, NC     # 11 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 January 22, 1975 Tue (Tuesday)   Dear Curtis   How is everything up there?  We are getting snow, but it is sleating (sleeting) and ranning (raining) now.  It look(s) like it is really slick out there the way some of them are walking.  The Dr. (Doctor) said Sam might get to go home Fri (Friday) if all his test showed up OK from today and if he wasenh't (wasn't) sick any.  He said if he had 1 sick day he woulden (wouldn't) get to go.  He was sick all day yesterday.  Thy gave him 5 shots it diden't (didn't) do any good but we gave him oxigon (oxygen) and he went right off to sleep.  Woke up this morning filling (feeling) much better.  Diden't (Didn't) eat any thing yesterday except breakfast.  I am glad I went home yesterday and took care of some of the things I had to (do).  I drew (withdrew) $2 hundred out of saving(s) for you and your check was $68.50 so you can put it down in your check book.  You said you could have a(n) interview at Statesville any time.  You should go as quick as you can for they will pick there (their) teachers early for another year.  I hope you do get on over there.  Your Dad said be careful up there and don't drive if there is snow.  Look and see about that Graduate test you can take free.  You need to take it next quarter while you can get it free.  I love you very much.  Sorry I havn't been able to cook and wait on you the last 2 times you have been home.  I will close so I can get thin in the mail so you will get it this week.  Study hard and make good grades.  I am sure you will do that since you don't like but 4 months.  See you soon I hope.  Tell all Hello.   Love Mom & Dad     # 12 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 January 29, 1975   Dear Curtis   How is every thing up your way?  It is ranny (rainy) down here.  We have ran (rain) every couple of days.  I am still staying with your Dad night and day.  The Dr. (Doctor) says he is getting better slowly.  Sam ask(ed) the Dr (Doctor) yesterday if he was going to get to go home tomorrow.  He said maybe a week from tomorrow.  When he gets able they are going to let him go home and come back for his oppration (operation).  I coulden (couldn't) handle him if they let him go know (now).  For some times he gets turned around.  I gess (guess) it is all that medicine.  Bobby & Grace brought him a real pretty flower.  They have been coming to see him every couple of days.  Bill Kirskey and Collen (Collene) came to see him yesterday and gave him $10.  Thelma (Willie Thelma Loftin Lanier) mailed him $5.  The Boarders (those who worked with Willie in the boarding-room at the hosiery mill) mailed him $5.  Helen (Mary Helen Goble Sigmon) gave us $5 this week and a handful of change last week.  Dasey Pearl (Daisy Pearl Loftin Herman) gave me $10 last week and Charlie (Charlie Roosevelt Loftin) gave him $10.  I am taking all is given to us for it takes a couple dollars a day for me to eat on, but we are not broke just saving it till I half (have) to have it.  Sorry I don't have any money to send you.  You will half (have) to spend your on (own) money and draw some out of savings for your next quarter.  Have you got your pictures yet?  They were good.  Get your applaction (applications) sent off as soon as possible.  Bobby said Carylon (Carolyn) night get a job teaching Spanish at Bandys.  Angelia (Angela Taylor Chitwell) is wonting (wanting) you and Carlyon (Carolyn) to try to get on out there.  I want you and Carylon (Carolyn) both to work to try to get you a job.  You might half (have) to do some visiting to get one.  If Carylon (Carolyn) half (have/has) to have the car to go look about one, let her have it if you don't half (have) to have it.  Has she had her pictures made to send off (on) her appalcations (applications).  Study hard and make good grades so you will pass every thing.  Just think you don't like (lack) but 4 months.  If it is God('s) will you might half (have) to have Carylon (Carolyn) to help you in your math if you don't understand it.  Tell all up there hello for me and Sam.  Sam has got lots of get well cards.  We are selling are (our) hog for (because) Lee (Lee Robinson) has been feedin it for 3 weeks and if Sam gets better he won't be able to have it killed.  His one old cow had a bull calf Wed (Wednesday) Lee said.  Come home this week if you can.  Your Dad calls you a lot - of course he don't no (know) what he is doing but if you have to (too) many lessons don't come for your education is more important.  I will half (have) to close.  Love you.   Love Mom & Dad   Notes: * Sam had a number of surgeries - including an exploratory surgery to see if they could find the cause for his sickness. * Bobby & Grace (Bobby Taylor & Grace Kirksey Taylor) were close friends of Sam & Willie's - as well as Curtis'  They attended Mathis Chapel Baptist Church where Sam and Willie attended.  They greatly influenced Curtis spiritually during his late teens. * Bill & Collene Kirksey were family friends from Mathis Chapel * Thelma (Willie Thelma Loftin Lanier) was Sam's sister * Helen (Mary Helen Goble Sigmon) was Willie's sister * Daisy Pearl (Daisy Pearl Loftin Herman) was Sam's sister * Charlie (Charlie Roosevelt Loftin) was Sam's oldest brother * Angela (Angela Taylor Chitwell) was Bobby & Grace's daughter - and a younger "sister" to Curtis     Senior year at Appalachian State University 1974 - 1975         # 13 Mrs. Sam Loftin R1, Box 11 Catawba, NC 28609   Mr. Curtis Loftin ASU, P.O. Box 2825 Boone, NC  28608 Spring 1975 Wed (Wednesday)   Hi Curtis   How are you getting along?  Sorry you are not filling (feeling) to (too) good.  Hope you are not comming (coming) down with the flu.  You have been sick a lot this year.  Maybe it is because you don't get a nuff (enough) rest.  Boy it fills (feels) good to be home.  Looking forward to sleeping in my own bed where I can strech (stretch) out and rest.  Your Dad seems lots better since we have got home.  He sits up a while and then he lays back down.  While he was in the hospital he diden't (didn't) seem to have energy to set (sit) up but they gave him 2 pt (pints) of blood Monday.  I called about my ins (insurance) at the mill.  Ruby said she woulden't (wouldn't) let it lapse and that I diden't (didn't) half (have) to pay it till I come back to work.  And Claude said he would try to work me 1 day a week and let me sign up when I come back to work.  If you and Carylon (Carolyn) arn't (aren't) sick are (or) got the cold Sun. (Sunday) come home if you can.  We would love to see you.  We love you very much and it is a privalage (privilege) to see you.  Sam said dinner and supper here sure was good.  He coulden (couldn't) half eat that hospital food.  Neather (Neither) could I.  I started to call Henry Clay (Henry Clay Gabriel) about Carylon (Carolyn).  I might still call him this week if I get a chance.  I talked to Grace (Grace Kirksey Taylor) this eving (evening).  She is sure you and Carylon (Carylon) will both get a job around here close.  I know you have been studying hard.  And I haven't been praying for you like I did since your Dad has been sick but will start back tonight.  I will be so glad when you finish.  It won't be long till quater (quarter) brake and you will get a rest.    Thur (Thursday)   Boy did i rest good last night, but Sam was up several times going to the bath room.  I will half (have) to close so I can get this in the mail.  We love you very much.  Se you Sun (Sunday) if not sick.   Love Mom & Dad   Notes: * Henry Clay Gabriel was on the Catawba County Board of Education.  He had dated Willie's sister Helen as a young man. * Grace (Mrs Bobby Lee Taylor - Grace Kirksey Taylor) was a close family friend.  She and Bobby had been youth choir directors at Mathis Chapel and greatly influenced Curtis.       Willie passed away on 06 Feb 2018 at the age of 92 and was buried beside of her husband Sam (Loftin) in the cemetery at Mathis Chapel Baptist Church in Catawba, NC