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The C.A. Johnson High School (a historical black High School 1949) Class of 1960 gathered on Saturday, September 6, 2025, to celebrate their 65th Class Reunion with memories, friendships, and laughter. Classmates now “83 years young”. Came together at the Spring Valley Country Club to reconnect and honor the lifelong bonds formed many years ago,
The celebration began with a welcome reception hosted on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the home of I. S. Leevy Johnson, (student body president) and by classmate Dr. Rachel Monteith Petty who reminded their classmates of the blessings of being able to gather after 65 years.
Highlights of the program on Saturday included a remembrance in the form of a litany read by Laverne Shumpert Bassard for classmates who have passed away, a toast of enduring friendships and plenty of storytelling about “the good sole days”, a delicious buffet meal, recognition of Dr. Brenton Coe, Principal of C. A. Johnson High School and two retired teachers, Mrs. Maurice Miles, a video of the class since the 8th grade, sharing of yearbook photographs, and participating in light-hearted questions such as “Do you remember”? The room was filled with smiles and laughter as classmates recalled favorite and strict teachers and hang out spots from their young days.
Dr. Faye Owens Hardy, Reunion Chair and “Miss CAJ 1960”, stated that the reunion was more than just looking back. It was about celebrating the journeys of families, work and the mere joy of still being able to come together as friends and “still remain golden after all these years”. Myrlene Smith Washington (Class President, Philadelphia) stated that the reunion was truly a celebration of
history, friendships, and the enduring spirit of the class of 1960. Earline Reid (Greenville, SC) and Frank McCarthy (Philadelphia) agreed that it was a “milestone” never to experience again. Shirley Daniels Faddies (Atlanta, GA) expressed words of gratitude for just being able to be here. Thedra Thompson Bullock (Columbia, SC) gave gratitude for a privilege, a blessing and lasting soul food for the heart. The evening ended with the singing of the Alma Mater.
Members of the 65th Planning Committee were Vivian Baker (Co-Chair) Laverne S. Bassard, Carol Ann L. Beard, Thedra T. Bullock, Shirley B. Edwards (Treasurer), Delores H. Haynes, I. S. Leevy Johnson (Meeting Host), Rosa S. King, B. Rosa C. Mickle, Annie D. Milliken, Rachel M. Petty, Robert Trapp, Willie M. Trapp and Louise B. Williams (50th class reunion chair person).
