Henry Thomas Sledge

"Horrible" - Grandpa was a jovial guy. When asked how his food was, or how he was doing, he'd always sarcastically answer "horrible" with a slight grin. I picked this up from him and do it almost every day.

"Early Years..." - I remember hearing this story growing up. Daddy left his home in Georgia in 1939 and headed for the Worlds Fair in New York. He literally put down his equipment out in the field, a hoe, and left without a word to anyone. He was only 15?? Everyone looked for him for some time. He found his way to New York, worked on and with horses for some rich man that took him in for a time. He could not of had two dimes in his pocket when he took off. Wow... When he first entered the military, he lied about his age to sign up because he was too young.

"Church, Choir, Love, Marriage..." - 1950's - Burge Memorial Methodist Church in Montgomery, AL. Young Beulah Pinson was singing in the choir. Not only was the congregation enjoying the hymns, but Henry Sledge caught sight of Beulah. It's said he "knew" he'd marry her a soon as he saw her. It wasn't long before Beulah and Henry found themselves out for a drive with friends. Henry took the opportunity and leaned up from the back seat to ask Beulah out on their first date. Apparently there was an upcoming all night gospel where the Statesmen Quartet would be performing. The Statesmen Quartet was considered the most successful gospel quartet of the 1950s and Henry and Beulah wanted to see them. Beulah and Henry did get to see them and had a grand ole time. Of course it wouldn't be proper for Beulah to participate all night, so Henry took her home. The gospel must have been good, because Henry headed back and spent the rest of the night at the gospel.

"Old Glory" - Grandpa was a true patriot and great American. Few things got under his skin like disrespect for the "colors". He would regularly "inform" businesses and individuals about their improper use to the flag. On several occasions I remember him pulling into a parking lot and explaining to me the importance of what he was about to do. We'd go inside a business and let them know that their tattered flag was unacceptable. You'd be surprised how fast most people react when you nicely spell out their error on this subject. Because of Grandpa's example I've done this more times than I can count. I've even cut down flags at stores that essentially laughed at my complaint. Thanks setting them straight Grandpa!

"a better place" - Grandpa, you left this world too soon and I really wish I had more memories to share. I do remember your gentle persona and how very intelligent you were; you were always known as a walking dictionary, and who doesn't love that? Grandpa, when you were here, you made the world a better place and we all miss you so much. I can't wait to see ya again.