There is something quite unique about the "spirit" of Sumpter Community School that is worth thinking about. We are family and as a result of that we shed tears of sorrow together when one of our members leaves this world. On July 10, 2008, teacher and friend, Gwen Haight, unexpectantly passed away. Her kind and gentle nature will be truly missed. She was a gifted listener and as a result of this talent she understood us so well. Weaving through the years as a treasured substitute that we all requested to a respected First Grade teacher she made her journey through life with poise. We witnessed the value she placed on integrity and it was a natural component of what she was all about.
Gwen knew how to laugh often and love much. Her ready smile was always a part of her demeanor and she gave it to all of us without reservation. It was evident she was an active participant in life. She could be seen wearing a silly hat, participating in a skit, or returning to school at night to decorate the school for the annual Civil War contest between the Ducks and the Beavers. One of her most endearing qualities was the twinkle in her eye when she spoke of her grandchildren or her students. There was never any doubt she was well suited to parenting and teaching. They were her calling.
As her next door neighbor in a room where the walls were thin I often listened to her engage the children in laughter and rhyme as she taught them that learning is fun. It is fitting to write some poetic lines for Gwen who brought poetry and verse to life for her students through the years.