Dear Editor, In the course of our daily lives we all are guilty of taking for granted the people around us. We know they are there, but often don’t take the time to stop and give a cheery hello or thanks.
We take for granted the “small town” atmosphere and fail to really appreciate what it truly means.
This meaning has come home to me in the most profound way recently following the death of my son, Chuck Conn.
The outpouring of love, prayers, support and friendliness has been overwhelming.  I will never find the words to express my gratitude to the many here in Pembroke for lifting me up and helping me begin my long journey back to reality and peace.
I would be remiss in my gratitude without singling out several of these people, but this will be done privately.
One person who deserves our City’s utmost respect and admiration is Tommy Flanders of Flanders-Morrison Funeral Home.  I don’t believe we, of Pembroke, truly realize what a jewel of a man we have. Websters’, nor I, can find the words to describe this dedicated, loving, kind and caring young man.
Tommy Flanders not only treats the loved ones left behind with respect and love, but the deceased loved one with the same. I feel extremely blessed to have become acquainted with this young man, even though this has been the worst time of my life, through Tommy the journey was ever so much lighter with him walking beside us.
Thank you Tommy for being there, for truly caring and taking those extra steps to make our burden lighter.  Pembroke and Bryan County are truly blessed to have you and I feel very fortunate to call you “Friend”.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.