Jerald Hadley

 February 15, 2021

By Kathleen Foster  

The Santa Fe Trail Center recognizes the time and effort of each of our volunteers.   Many of our volunteers have invested years of service, and it is their dedication and support which has allowed us to serve Pawnee County.

 One such individual who helped the us in so many ways was Jerald Hadley.    Jerald was an important part of our SFTC board. He was so dependable; we could always count on him. He joined the board after retiring from the Larned Schools where he was an outstanding and popular teacher of Biology for many students.  One of those students now works for the SFTC.    Jerald was thoughtful and considerate. Never seeking the limelight, he was steady and resourceful.  When Jerald shared his thoughts/opinions, we knew he had given the subject much thought.

 Jerald kept the grass at the SFTC ground mowed and tidy.   Without hesitation, Jerald drove out on the John Deere tractor early in the morning and mowed the grounds.  Never saying a word, he quietly came and then just as quietly left.  He contributed hours as a volunteer. He spent many a summer hour mowing the museum acreage.

 On one summer morning, Jerald finished the mowing and quietly went on his way.  He had a golf game to play.  He left us that morning. We did not get to say our earthly goodbyes.  We miss this kind man with the warm wonderful smile.    Thank you Jerald for your years of time and your kind, thoughtful way. We recognize Jerald as an outstanding volunteer and a kind friend.