I do not really have the words to do justice for all that Mr. Covington provided for so many people, but here is what I will say.
I remember less than a handful of teachers that had an impact on me. Mr. Covington is at the top of that small list. He was my coach in 7th and 8th grade in football, basketball, and track. He was a fantastic science teacher and really opened my eyes and love for science (why ice cools a glass of soda)(making wonder bread into a ball that bounces)(saltine crackers being irresistible to swallow). these are just some of the many lessons learned in his class.
While incredibly sad that he has passed, it has brought back so many fond and positive memories.
From those above to having to do suicides at basketball practice for missing a layup (the easiest shot) to jumping the "can" for breaking a rule in class......He provided focus...Not only in those settings, but in life.
My thoughts go out to his family, and I deeply thank Mr. Covington for helping me become the person I am today......God Bless!
Karon moved to Ackerman when we were in the 6th grade and shared the same desk until he was issued books and became the closest of friends throughout the rest of his life. I have so many stories and fond memories that I could tell of him that I will always cherish. God Bless him and his family
@Ralph Bowie Ralph, he sure did love you!!! Thanks for being such a great friend to Karon over the years.
He sure loved teaching and coaching, and we love reading your memories, thank you so much for sharing!!
When I return from Korea I learned from home he was going through basic training there at Ft Smith where I was being discharged so I looked him up.
When I walked into the barracks he was sitting on his bunk head in hands
looking down, I walked up to him put my hand on his shoulder, and at the
same time saying how are you doing Karo. I will never forget the look on his face
and how happy he was to see me. There were several GI's sitting there
speaking Spanish and he couldn't understand a word they were saying and
he was so homesick it was getting to him. I said let's get out of here and walk around and he told me they were restricted to the company area. I told him
I would go down to the orderly room and get permission and for him to get
ready so we got out and walked around the post a good while. When I left him
he did not seem to be as homesick as when I arrived. I will never forget that
day.
Very well said.