*Penned by Loretta
"Love knows not it's depths, until the hour of separation". Age 14
"EACH DAY COUNTS"
At age 56, when her sister died.
"Sometimes my thoughts splatter out in all directions at once. Kind of like dropping a handful of marbles from a foot above the floor".
Age 64
" Riding the carousel is always fun when I know I'm on the horse in the lead".
"The carousel is still moving. Don't hop off until the music quits".
Age 65
"I may eventually wear out, but I'm never going to just sit down and rust".
Age 68
Dare not to die, but yet with dreams!
Age 3 weeks shy of 69
Rich are those who can count their friends...on more than both hands.
Age 69 4 mo
Loretta, known to her family , as "Dumpy". A nickname that derived from her daddy calling her 'his little Dumplin' as a baby. Her sister, Linda, age 3 at the time, had trouble saying "Dumplin", and so, it affectionately became "Dumpy". She went on to have other nicknames: Hon, Lori, Little Stinker, Hot Rod, Tater, Possum, Short Stop, Pokey-rod, Retta, Uncle Retta, Boss, Stretch. Her most beloved names to be called, however, were "Mom" and "MiMa".
Poetry was one of her loves. Mostly reading and relating to the 'sappy' ones, written by others, but she penned her own poetry as well. She started recording in a ledger, at age 14, those poems and sayings that she would continue to write throughout her lifetime.
As a teen she was a big fan of 'The Beatles' and had their photos taped on her bedroom wall. Then later, she would be introduced to Country Music by her second husband and was 'hooked'. She could be found driving around the gravel roads, windows down, hair blowing, radio or 8-track blaring, singing her heart out. As a pre-teen, her mother took her to piano lessons with Miss Sarah Jane Hale, of Carrollton, MO. and were 50 cents per hour. Coming from a maternal musical family, Loretta's mother had great expectations for her own children to inherit the gift. Sister, Linda was given accordion lessons. She never got very good at it. Brother, Bob, well, he, like Loretta, was good at playing 'the radio'. The piano lessons...let's just say that Loretta was an expert at making the dog howl, and somehow, her father could nap through her practice sessions in the parent's bedroom...the only place for a piano in the house. But, the opportunity was given...Mama at least tried.
According to her only brother, Bob, his memory of the morning of March 1, 1953,..was that it was bitter cold, with lots of snow on the ground, and he had to help daddy gather corn cobs to place under the motor of the old car, then set them afire to warm it enough to start the car for the 10 mile journey to Carrollton to get Mama to the Atwood Hospital in time. He always loved to tease his baby sister of just how much trouble she would cause..from day one.
At 12:15 p.m., just at dinner time (yes, it was breakfast, dinner and supper back then. "Lunch was only served at school), Loretta was born, the third child and second daughter to Edwin Marion Willis and Evelyn Florence (Todd) Willis. They brought her home to the house on the hill along the Wakenda Bluff, on their 8'th wedding anniversary..March 4'th. Welcoming her home, was her only brother, Robert "Bobby"/"Bob" Allen Willis, age 6, and her only sister, Linda "Doodle" Kathaleen Willis, age 3. And so the life began of the little country girl who grew up with cow poo twixt her toes, and was always proud of it.
Loretta's childhood left her with a solid blessing of God, family, love, respect, hard work, hard play, and only the beginnings of the gathering of an immense amount of friends throughout her lifetime.
Only scant pieces of her memory of the days before she started school, stayed with her. She could only remember going to California, by train, to attend her Uncle George's wedding in 1957. She remembered playing with the bride dolls that her parents had gotten for her and her sister to entertain them on the trip. That same doll, would remain in her possession for over 60 years.
She spent her first 8 years of school at the Wakenda Grade School, Wakenda, Missouri. There was no kindergarten classes at that time. With Wakenda having no high school, she rode the bus 10 miles to, and 10 miles back, to attend the Carrollton High School, in Carrollton, Missouri, graduating with the Class of 1971. She had a tough act to follow, since both her brother and sister before her, graduated with a 12 year perfect attendance. Always seeming not to "Conform to Conformity", Loretta thought it be more fun to skip school her Freshman year with 5 other classmates. Having had such a good time that Friday, they decided to do it again the following Friday, and by then the 1958 Chevy was packed double decker with 10 children. Luck seems to run out sometimes..they were caught. Suspended from school for 3 days ( it was called "Kicked out" back then), and the parents, sorely disappointed about that 3'rd child not having a perfect record...she was put to work for three days. Picking out pecans (seemed like a ton of them), planting potatoes..by herself, rows and rows of them, and having to tag along with daddy at his work. There were no more days of skipping school, and a story that she did not tell her two daughters until after they had, themselves, graduated from high school.
And, about grade school. Daddy, Edwin was President of the board of the Wakenda Grade School. Just long enough to be able to personally, and proudly present his 3 children with their 8'th grade diplomas, and hand them their Life's Reading Circle Certificates. Loretta never liked very much to read books, and would rather have taken a beating than to have to stand up in front of the class and give an oral report on one. She carried the guilt her whole life for never deserving of that Life's Reading Certificate. She had already known, early on, that she just didn't have the time, nor desire to waste time reading when she could be OUTSIDE doing something far more interesting. So how did she attain it? She 'made up' stories and authors. Claimed the books came from the Carrollton Library. It was a secret she would never have the nerve to share with her father. However, the teachers must have had empathy and gave her an A for all her stories. A for Amagination? She figured that her sister always read enough for the two of them..often hollering from upstairs when Sis' bed lamp was still on at 1 a.m. "MOM...LINDA STILL HAS HER LIGHT ON AND I CAN"T GO TO SLEEP".
In the summer of 1962, at the age of 9, Loretta got her first job, picking strawberries in Bales' Orchard near Wakenda. The age requirement for employment there, was 12, however, her older brother, and older sister both had jobs at Bales' and the proprieter , Elvin Elliott, told Evelyn "Just bring her along, we'll keep her busy". The pay was 3 cents per quart. Most times, Evelyn spent more on Loretta's packed lunch, than what she earned. But the life's lesson of hard work and dedication would bring rewards of itself. She learned where dimes came from. The heat of the summer's sun left her with tanned hide, but she didn't enjoy having to wear shoes. Summer employment at the orchard would continue through high school, when she wasn't hoeing weeds from bean fields for area farmers, or detasseling corn. During her first year of high school, she sold extra milk for 2 cents a carton in the lunchroom. For this, she was given free lunches and a paycheck of $32 a month, minus taxes. It was then, that at age 14, she would apply for a social security card and open her first bank account. The following three years, she was the cashier at the school, got free lunches, but the government funded program dropped the wage to $8 a month, minus taxes. Following graduation, she fulfilled her dream of getting married, June 26, 1971 at the Wakenda Baptist Church...seemingly her #1 priority over continuing any education. She married her high school sweetheart, Terry Neal Endicott. (Loretta and her sister would first marry brothers, Eddie and Terry, both of which marriages resulted in no children). She soon took employment of a bonified job, working at Banner Biscuit company, also known as Carroll Cookie Factory, in Carrollton, MO. , where she was a line worker , traying cookies. It was a hot place to work in summer months, and anyone who worked there, went home smelling like a cookie. Loretta, almost without fail, packed only a thermos of warm spinach for dinner. After going through a divorce from Terry, and no longer living on Doug Hill, she took employment with Banquet Foods, where she would become a lifetime member of the AMW (Amalgamated Meat Workers), again as a line worker. Night shift, which seemed to suit. She then would marry Michael Kent Hedrick (of Carrollton, MO), who was enlisted in the U.S.Navy, stationed in San Diego, CA. at the time. They were married at the courthouse by a justice of the peace in San Diego, on October 4, 1973. She and Mike were assistant apartment managers of the Point Loma Gardens Apartments in San Diego. Divorcing in 1974, she returned to Carrollton. No children born to this union. Taking a break from married life, she went through several relationships, and worked as a waitress at Co-op Cafe, once known as Bryant's Restaurant. A job she enjoyed, meeting and serving many. It was there that she met and fell in love with Martin Dewitt Rainey, a well driller who worked for Larry's Well & Pump company who had recently moved their business to town and Martin had followed from Kansas City. Martin was given the nickname of "Digger", by Loretta's mother, Evelyn Willis. Martin "Digger" was born and raised in rural Belzoni, Mississippi. He served 4 years in the U.S. Marines, and upon discharge, moved to Blue Springs, MO. in with one of his sister's to seek employment. Digger and Loretta were married by a justice of the peace in Isola, Mississippi on February 6, 1981. They had moved to Isola, MS. in 1979, then later to Belzoni, MS., where they purchased a home. Digger followed Larry's Well & Pump company to his hometown and continued employment there until 1984, when they decided to come back to Carroll County. During their 6 years in Belzoni, Loretta worked at The Varsity Restaurant as a waitress and assistant manager. She took the Civil Service exam and was hired on as a clerk/carrier at the Belzoni Post Office in July of 1981, and began what would be her career of 31 years and 6 days with the United States Postal Service. Digger and Loretta became the proud parents of two daughters, Misty Lynn Rainey in Oct 1982 and Mayla Kate Rainey in July 1984, both born in Greenwood, Mississippi. Bill Bickel, postmaster of the Carrollton Post Office, contacted Loretta in 1984, inquiring if she would be interested in transferring from MS., back home to Carrollton. Two 24' U-Hauls and 8 vehicles brought them back. To include Loretta's family members who drove down to help make it possible. Digger and Loretta purchased a home in December of 1984, and the following May, Digger began his 20 + year career with The Missouri State Highway Department. By 1986, Loretta was appointed as Supervisor of the 17 employees at the Carrollton Post Office. In September of 1991, she took on an OIC (officer in charge) position at the Bogard Post Office, Bogard, MO. On February 20, 1993, she was appointed postmaster, where she would retire from on July 31, 2012 at the age of 59. Her postal career was something she loved dearly, and her patrons were always considered her extended family. Digger and Loretta were divorced in 1993, but remained constant friends and raised their daughters in a way in which there wasn't an ounce of negativity involved. Loretta would then marry , on August 20, 1994, Roger Lee Fones of Carrollton, MO. They purchased a home in Bogard, MO. Loretta would maintain the grounds of their home, and manage and mow the old Bogard School property, beginning in 2006. She would be remembered by spending many hours on "Ole Greenie", the John Deere mower. Something she loved to do...giving time to 'think' while she mowed.
So much could be said for the life of Loretta "Dumpy", the little barefoot girl who loved being outdoors her whole life, and who carried a humanitarian torch for others. Her thoughts and emotions, ran deep, as did her love. Once loved by her, it was for life, no matter what the separation, if any, would be. You were still in her heart. Loretta, the little girl who grew up, contently, on a farm along the Wakenda Bluff. She probably wandered over every inch of that farm, either following at her daddy's heels or that of her mother and siblings, or simply exploring on her own, with her faithful companion, her dog, Sarah Jane. The barn was one of her favorite hangouts, where the loft was filled with cats and kittens and she'd peer down through the cracks to watch her daddy milk the Jersey cows. She'd ride ole "Jughead", her favorite tamed cow, around in the lot, and when he'd open the gate to let them back out in the pasture, she'd ride her while she crossed the road. A nearby creek by the barn, found her there often. Looking for tadpoles, horsehairs, fish and on hot summer nights, not being able to resist to hop in and cool off. Sometimes to her mother's dismay when she'd come to the back door , drenched, and mud or manure between her toes. Life was incredably simple, and good! There were chores to do, but hard work and hard play were equally balanced. Neighbors were no more well off than us. We were all rich, but not monetarily.
Loretta attened Wakenda Grade School..grades 1-8, where she would make lifelong friends. Teachers were respected, same as your parents. The only thing that Loretta didn't care for about school, was reading, and especially the extra books for reports and oral reports were the worst. It would take many years before standing in front of a group would become easier. The class theme for 8'th grade graduation in 1967 was "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". One of Loretta's favorite songs. 10 students graduated, with Edwin Willis, then School Board President, proudly handing Loretta her diploma.
Coming from a military family, to include her ancestors, Loretta was taught early on to have full respect and honor for all those who had served and were presently serving. Her own father offered 4 years of his life to the United States Navy, during which time he would meet and later marry, Loretta's mother. "Dumpy", at 16, stood on the back porch and bawled as she said goodbye to her only brother, who, too, had volunteered to be a 4 year Sailor, and was headed to Vietnam. She thanked the Lord for bringing him home safely. Her only sister gave 22 years to the United States Army. Someone had to stay at home and be of support, Loretta took that on with great pride. However, little did she ever dream, at age 48, she would be standing at the airport, with Digger, as they sent their own Soldier, Misty , off to Afghanistan for a year. Loretta, then knew, what other mothers had truly felt, when their children went off to war. Misty had used her 'pull' at her unit, to make a personalized dog tag to leave with her mother before she boarded the plane. She placed it around her mother's neck, of which Loretta never took off the whole year Misty was gone. It read "Keep this next to your heart. I love you Mom". Another of God's blessings bestowed, when Misty returned, safely, and was the one to take it off. Loretta would go on to wear it at Veteran Day events, held at the Bogard's Soldiers' Memorial Building in Bogard, MO., where she was mostly responsible for making it an annual program to honor all our military, past and present, and served 25 years as treasurer of the board.
Having witnessed her daughters come to be out on their own, and ever so proud of who they had become, at age 49, Loretta learned that she was going to be a grandmother. A grandmother!! She pondered... "How well will I fill this role?". Grandma, aka "MiMa" would be present at the birth of 3 of her grandsons. She was at the hospital with the 4'th, but they wouldn't let her go in the operating room when an emergency C-section was performed. MiMa's finger was the first that he grasped, while his mother was still in recovery. God just kept giving those continued blessings, as both the loss of the lives of her daughter and 4'th grandson had become a very real possibility that day. Upon Mayla's first wellness appointment, Loretta gave the doctor 3 roses. One for her medical ability and compassion to save them, the other two to represent the lives she had saved. "Grandkidding", as MiMa would call it, became second nature. She involved herself with their lives, helping to teach them morals, values, respect, compassion and the goodness of the gift of life. Loretta wouldn't be remembered as the grandmother standing by the oven baking cookies (although there were some occasions of it), but rather by her getting them in the great outdoors as much as possible. One day they would grow up and remember how she would take them along to the cemeteries in search for names on tombstones to fill photo requests for Findagrave. They were just little guys, first learning how to read when they started going along. Sack lunches, plenty to drink on hot days, sticky notes with surnames on them to aid in their searches. But, there was so many examples of things to be learned from these 'wandering and wonderings' when they weren't even aware of it. Respect for the dead, addition, subtraction, honor those who have gone before us, heartache experienced by families, diseases, types of insects, animals and trees while they were there...the list was endless. MiMa would be remembered by her brush piles with hot dog roasts, a shovel in winter to scoop snow from the roof, helping her neighbors with projects, etc., and all the while, incorporating volunteerism, to include her grandsons, so they would know the ways of humanitarianism, with the only reward being the fullness of heart when they are through. With this, and just when MiMa thought that # 4 would be the last to help mentor, Loretta's youngest daughter, Mayla, opened her heart and home, to raise, yet, one more boy. A 43-day old little boy who's mother had been murdered. Although she had her hands full with 4 boys, ranging in the ages of 4 to 15, one more was welcomed. Loretta was proud to see, once again, that her own compassion had been passed down.
Christmas 2017
When a mother's heart bubbles over!!!!! Raising children comes with no instructions. As my girls were growing up, the BATHROOM was the 'revelation place'. "Mom, would you come to the bathroom a minute?" I NEVER knew what the conversation was going to be when they'd lock the door behind us. Here are some examples.."Mom, I got a speeding ticket. Do we have to tell Roger?" "Mom, I emptied all the gas from the lawnmower cans to put in my car, can you fill them up before anyone notices?" "Mom, I'm pregnant..again". So, last night, Christmas Eve, my two grown daughters lock themselves in the bathroom, and I'm NOT invited! Oh Boy!, now what's this about??. During the course of about a half an hour, I hear giggles, and I hear equal amounts of silence. ?? During the course of opening gifts, I find this little purple book. "What I Love About Mom" and signed by "Us Girls". I can't even begin to tell of the gamet of emotions that ran as I read the first 5 pages, of 50. Misty, seeing that this was going to 'take a while', reached for the book from my hands and read them aloud to me. They had each taken turns, and some pages, collectively, spending that half hour filling in the blanks. It couldn't have been more perfect a gift, and I will treasure it for all my days. Here's a few of their entries. I love your hugs, and helping with the boys. I love hearing stories about your crazy adventures. You inspire me to always think of others first. I love it when you call me "Peep-Pie" and "Sweet Pea". (you know I'm going to list them all...ha). I'm humbled by your generosity. I love remembering the time when we went prom dress shopping with the Lazenby crew. I'm thankful I got your smile and your kind heart. I love that you still are a phone call away for us. I hope to be as kind to people as you one day. I am so lucky that you're our Mom. I love how you never give up. I love how you always listen to me bitch. When I was little, I loved to watch you fart around in the outside. If I had to describe you in one word, it would be love. I'd love it if we could spend more time together soon. If you were a dance, you'd be the 2 step. I love getting advice on life. You have the prettiest heart. I never get tired of your hugs and kisses. I love how you never get tired of my bitching. You are so knowledgeable, so loving and so caring. If you were a scent, you'd be vanilla. I love that you encourage me never to give up. Sometimes your ability to stay sane amazes me. It makes me laugh to think how you dealt with us. I'd be lost without your love. I love that you taught me about life. You are the best mom ever. I love how good you are at listening. When we are apart, it makes me happy to think about you. I wish I had known you when you were younger. I love going to family things with you. I love your taste in fashion. (ha ha) (fanny pack). I hope you get to visit your favorite graveyard soon. If you wanted to you could easily run away (but you don't). I have to admit you're always right about "someone or something at your job". I love that fanny pack that you still wear. I admire your dedication to us. You deserve the best mom award. I love the sound of your voice when you say I love you. I love that you love my bitchiness and kids. I love to play UNO with you. I still can't believe you put up with us. I love it when you giggle like a kid. I love how you have such strong feelings. I always want to hear what you're going to say about what the kids say around you. It makes me smile when you smile. I love to do special stuff for you. Nobody else can understand like you. Thank you for being our Mom.
"Love knows not it's depths, until the hour of separation". Age 14
"EACH DAY COUNTS"
At age 56, when her sister died.
"Sometimes my thoughts splatter out in all directions at once. Kind of like dropping a handful of marbles from a foot above the floor".
Age 64
" Riding the carousel is always fun when I know I'm on the horse in the lead".
"The carousel is still moving. Don't hop off until the music quits".
Age 65
"I may eventually wear out, but I'm never going to just sit down and rust".
Age 68
Dare not to die, but yet with dreams!
Age 3 weeks shy of 69
Rich are those who can count their friends...on more than both hands.
Age 69 4 mo
Loretta, known to her family , as "Dumpy". A nickname that derived from her daddy calling her 'his little Dumplin' as a baby. Her sister, Linda, age 3 at the time, had trouble saying "Dumplin", and so, it affectionately became "Dumpy". She went on to have other nicknames: Hon, Lori, Little Stinker, Hot Rod, Tater, Possum, Short Stop, Pokey-rod, Retta, Uncle Retta, Boss, Stretch. Her most beloved names to be called, however, were "Mom" and "MiMa".
Poetry was one of her loves. Mostly reading and relating to the 'sappy' ones, written by others, but she penned her own poetry as well. She started recording in a ledger, at age 14, those poems and sayings that she would continue to write throughout her lifetime.
As a teen she was a big fan of 'The Beatles' and had their photos taped on her bedroom wall. Then later, she would be introduced to Country Music by her second husband and was 'hooked'. She could be found driving around the gravel roads, windows down, hair blowing, radio or 8-track blaring, singing her heart out. As a pre-teen, her mother took her to piano lessons with Miss Sarah Jane Hale, of Carrollton, MO. and were 50 cents per hour. Coming from a maternal musical family, Loretta's mother had great expectations for her own children to inherit the gift. Sister, Linda was given accordion lessons. She never got very good at it. Brother, Bob, well, he, like Loretta, was good at playing 'the radio'. The piano lessons...let's just say that Loretta was an expert at making the dog howl, and somehow, her father could nap through her practice sessions in the parent's bedroom...the only place for a piano in the house. But, the opportunity was given...Mama at least tried.
According to her only brother, Bob, his memory of the morning of March 1, 1953,..was that it was bitter cold, with lots of snow on the ground, and he had to help daddy gather corn cobs to place under the motor of the old car, then set them afire to warm it enough to start the car for the 10 mile journey to Carrollton to get Mama to the Atwood Hospital in time. He always loved to tease his baby sister of just how much trouble she would cause..from day one.
At 12:15 p.m., just at dinner time (yes, it was breakfast, dinner and supper back then. "Lunch was only served at school), Loretta was born, the third child and second daughter to Edwin Marion Willis and Evelyn Florence (Todd) Willis. They brought her home to the house on the hill along the Wakenda Bluff, on their 8'th wedding anniversary..March 4'th. Welcoming her home, was her only brother, Robert "Bobby"/"Bob" Allen Willis, age 6, and her only sister, Linda "Doodle" Kathaleen Willis, age 3. And so the life began of the little country girl who grew up with cow poo twixt her toes, and was always proud of it.
Loretta's childhood left her with a solid blessing of God, family, love, respect, hard work, hard play, and only the beginnings of the gathering of an immense amount of friends throughout her lifetime.
Only scant pieces of her memory of the days before she started school, stayed with her. She could only remember going to California, by train, to attend her Uncle George's wedding in 1957. She remembered playing with the bride dolls that her parents had gotten for her and her sister to entertain them on the trip. That same doll, would remain in her possession for over 60 years.
She spent her first 8 years of school at the Wakenda Grade School, Wakenda, Missouri. There was no kindergarten classes at that time. With Wakenda having no high school, she rode the bus 10 miles to, and 10 miles back, to attend the Carrollton High School, in Carrollton, Missouri, graduating with the Class of 1971. She had a tough act to follow, since both her brother and sister before her, graduated with a 12 year perfect attendance. Always seeming not to "Conform to Conformity", Loretta thought it be more fun to skip school her Freshman year with 5 other classmates. Having had such a good time that Friday, they decided to do it again the following Friday, and by then the 1958 Chevy was packed double decker with 10 children. Luck seems to run out sometimes..they were caught. Suspended from school for 3 days ( it was called "Kicked out" back then), and the parents, sorely disappointed about that 3'rd child not having a perfect record...she was put to work for three days. Picking out pecans (seemed like a ton of them), planting potatoes..by herself, rows and rows of them, and having to tag along with daddy at his work. There were no more days of skipping school, and a story that she did not tell her two daughters until after they had, themselves, graduated from high school.
And, about grade school. Daddy, Edwin was President of the board of the Wakenda Grade School. Just long enough to be able to personally, and proudly present his 3 children with their 8'th grade diplomas, and hand them their Life's Reading Circle Certificates. Loretta never liked very much to read books, and would rather have taken a beating than to have to stand up in front of the class and give an oral report on one. She carried the guilt her whole life for never deserving of that Life's Reading Certificate. She had already known, early on, that she just didn't have the time, nor desire to waste time reading when she could be OUTSIDE doing something far more interesting. So how did she attain it? She 'made up' stories and authors. Claimed the books came from the Carrollton Library. It was a secret she would never have the nerve to share with her father. However, the teachers must have had empathy and gave her an A for all her stories. A for Amagination? She figured that her sister always read enough for the two of them..often hollering from upstairs when Sis' bed lamp was still on at 1 a.m. "MOM...LINDA STILL HAS HER LIGHT ON AND I CAN"T GO TO SLEEP".
In the summer of 1962, at the age of 9, Loretta got her first job, picking strawberries in Bales' Orchard near Wakenda. The age requirement for employment there, was 12, however, her older brother, and older sister both had jobs at Bales' and the proprieter , Elvin Elliott, told Evelyn "Just bring her along, we'll keep her busy". The pay was 3 cents per quart. Most times, Evelyn spent more on Loretta's packed lunch, than what she earned. But the life's lesson of hard work and dedication would bring rewards of itself. She learned where dimes came from. The heat of the summer's sun left her with tanned hide, but she didn't enjoy having to wear shoes. Summer employment at the orchard would continue through high school, when she wasn't hoeing weeds from bean fields for area farmers, or detasseling corn. During her first year of high school, she sold extra milk for 2 cents a carton in the lunchroom. For this, she was given free lunches and a paycheck of $32 a month, minus taxes. It was then, that at age 14, she would apply for a social security card and open her first bank account. The following three years, she was the cashier at the school, got free lunches, but the government funded program dropped the wage to $8 a month, minus taxes. Following graduation, she fulfilled her dream of getting married, June 26, 1971 at the Wakenda Baptist Church...seemingly her #1 priority over continuing any education. She married her high school sweetheart, Terry Neal Endicott. (Loretta and her sister would first marry brothers, Eddie and Terry, both of which marriages resulted in no children). She soon took employment of a bonified job, working at Banner Biscuit company, also known as Carroll Cookie Factory, in Carrollton, MO. , where she was a line worker , traying cookies. It was a hot place to work in summer months, and anyone who worked there, went home smelling like a cookie. Loretta, almost without fail, packed only a thermos of warm spinach for dinner. After going through a divorce from Terry, and no longer living on Doug Hill, she took employment with Banquet Foods, where she would become a lifetime member of the AMW (Amalgamated Meat Workers), again as a line worker. Night shift, which seemed to suit. She then would marry Michael Kent Hedrick (of Carrollton, MO), who was enlisted in the U.S.Navy, stationed in San Diego, CA. at the time. They were married at the courthouse by a justice of the peace in San Diego, on October 4, 1973. She and Mike were assistant apartment managers of the Point Loma Gardens Apartments in San Diego. Divorcing in 1974, she returned to Carrollton. No children born to this union. Taking a break from married life, she went through several relationships, and worked as a waitress at Co-op Cafe, once known as Bryant's Restaurant. A job she enjoyed, meeting and serving many. It was there that she met and fell in love with Martin Dewitt Rainey, a well driller who worked for Larry's Well & Pump company who had recently moved their business to town and Martin had followed from Kansas City. Martin was given the nickname of "Digger", by Loretta's mother, Evelyn Willis. Martin "Digger" was born and raised in rural Belzoni, Mississippi. He served 4 years in the U.S. Marines, and upon discharge, moved to Blue Springs, MO. in with one of his sister's to seek employment. Digger and Loretta were married by a justice of the peace in Isola, Mississippi on February 6, 1981. They had moved to Isola, MS. in 1979, then later to Belzoni, MS., where they purchased a home. Digger followed Larry's Well & Pump company to his hometown and continued employment there until 1984, when they decided to come back to Carroll County. During their 6 years in Belzoni, Loretta worked at The Varsity Restaurant as a waitress and assistant manager. She took the Civil Service exam and was hired on as a clerk/carrier at the Belzoni Post Office in July of 1981, and began what would be her career of 31 years and 6 days with the United States Postal Service. Digger and Loretta became the proud parents of two daughters, Misty Lynn Rainey in Oct 1982 and Mayla Kate Rainey in July 1984, both born in Greenwood, Mississippi. Bill Bickel, postmaster of the Carrollton Post Office, contacted Loretta in 1984, inquiring if she would be interested in transferring from MS., back home to Carrollton. Two 24' U-Hauls and 8 vehicles brought them back. To include Loretta's family members who drove down to help make it possible. Digger and Loretta purchased a home in December of 1984, and the following May, Digger began his 20 + year career with The Missouri State Highway Department. By 1986, Loretta was appointed as Supervisor of the 17 employees at the Carrollton Post Office. In September of 1991, she took on an OIC (officer in charge) position at the Bogard Post Office, Bogard, MO. On February 20, 1993, she was appointed postmaster, where she would retire from on July 31, 2012 at the age of 59. Her postal career was something she loved dearly, and her patrons were always considered her extended family. Digger and Loretta were divorced in 1993, but remained constant friends and raised their daughters in a way in which there wasn't an ounce of negativity involved. Loretta would then marry , on August 20, 1994, Roger Lee Fones of Carrollton, MO. They purchased a home in Bogard, MO. Loretta would maintain the grounds of their home, and manage and mow the old Bogard School property, beginning in 2006. She would be remembered by spending many hours on "Ole Greenie", the John Deere mower. Something she loved to do...giving time to 'think' while she mowed.
So much could be said for the life of Loretta "Dumpy", the little barefoot girl who loved being outdoors her whole life, and who carried a humanitarian torch for others. Her thoughts and emotions, ran deep, as did her love. Once loved by her, it was for life, no matter what the separation, if any, would be. You were still in her heart. Loretta, the little girl who grew up, contently, on a farm along the Wakenda Bluff. She probably wandered over every inch of that farm, either following at her daddy's heels or that of her mother and siblings, or simply exploring on her own, with her faithful companion, her dog, Sarah Jane. The barn was one of her favorite hangouts, where the loft was filled with cats and kittens and she'd peer down through the cracks to watch her daddy milk the Jersey cows. She'd ride ole "Jughead", her favorite tamed cow, around in the lot, and when he'd open the gate to let them back out in the pasture, she'd ride her while she crossed the road. A nearby creek by the barn, found her there often. Looking for tadpoles, horsehairs, fish and on hot summer nights, not being able to resist to hop in and cool off. Sometimes to her mother's dismay when she'd come to the back door , drenched, and mud or manure between her toes. Life was incredably simple, and good! There were chores to do, but hard work and hard play were equally balanced. Neighbors were no more well off than us. We were all rich, but not monetarily.
Loretta attened Wakenda Grade School..grades 1-8, where she would make lifelong friends. Teachers were respected, same as your parents. The only thing that Loretta didn't care for about school, was reading, and especially the extra books for reports and oral reports were the worst. It would take many years before standing in front of a group would become easier. The class theme for 8'th grade graduation in 1967 was "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". One of Loretta's favorite songs. 10 students graduated, with Edwin Willis, then School Board President, proudly handing Loretta her diploma.
Coming from a military family, to include her ancestors, Loretta was taught early on to have full respect and honor for all those who had served and were presently serving. Her own father offered 4 years of his life to the United States Navy, during which time he would meet and later marry, Loretta's mother. "Dumpy", at 16, stood on the back porch and bawled as she said goodbye to her only brother, who, too, had volunteered to be a 4 year Sailor, and was headed to Vietnam. She thanked the Lord for bringing him home safely. Her only sister gave 22 years to the United States Army. Someone had to stay at home and be of support, Loretta took that on with great pride. However, little did she ever dream, at age 48, she would be standing at the airport, with Digger, as they sent their own Soldier, Misty , off to Afghanistan for a year. Loretta, then knew, what other mothers had truly felt, when their children went off to war. Misty had used her 'pull' at her unit, to make a personalized dog tag to leave with her mother before she boarded the plane. She placed it around her mother's neck, of which Loretta never took off the whole year Misty was gone. It read "Keep this next to your heart. I love you Mom". Another of God's blessings bestowed, when Misty returned, safely, and was the one to take it off. Loretta would go on to wear it at Veteran Day events, held at the Bogard's Soldiers' Memorial Building in Bogard, MO., where she was mostly responsible for making it an annual program to honor all our military, past and present, and served 25 years as treasurer of the board.
Having witnessed her daughters come to be out on their own, and ever so proud of who they had become, at age 49, Loretta learned that she was going to be a grandmother. A grandmother!! She pondered... "How well will I fill this role?". Grandma, aka "MiMa" would be present at the birth of 3 of her grandsons. She was at the hospital with the 4'th, but they wouldn't let her go in the operating room when an emergency C-section was performed. MiMa's finger was the first that he grasped, while his mother was still in recovery. God just kept giving those continued blessings, as both the loss of the lives of her daughter and 4'th grandson had become a very real possibility that day. Upon Mayla's first wellness appointment, Loretta gave the doctor 3 roses. One for her medical ability and compassion to save them, the other two to represent the lives she had saved. "Grandkidding", as MiMa would call it, became second nature. She involved herself with their lives, helping to teach them morals, values, respect, compassion and the goodness of the gift of life. Loretta wouldn't be remembered as the grandmother standing by the oven baking cookies (although there were some occasions of it), but rather by her getting them in the great outdoors as much as possible. One day they would grow up and remember how she would take them along to the cemeteries in search for names on tombstones to fill photo requests for Findagrave. They were just little guys, first learning how to read when they started going along. Sack lunches, plenty to drink on hot days, sticky notes with surnames on them to aid in their searches. But, there was so many examples of things to be learned from these 'wandering and wonderings' when they weren't even aware of it. Respect for the dead, addition, subtraction, honor those who have gone before us, heartache experienced by families, diseases, types of insects, animals and trees while they were there...the list was endless. MiMa would be remembered by her brush piles with hot dog roasts, a shovel in winter to scoop snow from the roof, helping her neighbors with projects, etc., and all the while, incorporating volunteerism, to include her grandsons, so they would know the ways of humanitarianism, with the only reward being the fullness of heart when they are through. With this, and just when MiMa thought that # 4 would be the last to help mentor, Loretta's youngest daughter, Mayla, opened her heart and home, to raise, yet, one more boy. A 43-day old little boy who's mother had been murdered. Although she had her hands full with 4 boys, ranging in the ages of 4 to 15, one more was welcomed. Loretta was proud to see, once again, that her own compassion had been passed down.
Christmas 2017
When a mother's heart bubbles over!!!!! Raising children comes with no instructions. As my girls were growing up, the BATHROOM was the 'revelation place'. "Mom, would you come to the bathroom a minute?" I NEVER knew what the conversation was going to be when they'd lock the door behind us. Here are some examples.."Mom, I got a speeding ticket. Do we have to tell Roger?" "Mom, I emptied all the gas from the lawnmower cans to put in my car, can you fill them up before anyone notices?" "Mom, I'm pregnant..again". So, last night, Christmas Eve, my two grown daughters lock themselves in the bathroom, and I'm NOT invited! Oh Boy!, now what's this about??. During the course of about a half an hour, I hear giggles, and I hear equal amounts of silence. ?? During the course of opening gifts, I find this little purple book. "What I Love About Mom" and signed by "Us Girls". I can't even begin to tell of the gamet of emotions that ran as I read the first 5 pages, of 50. Misty, seeing that this was going to 'take a while', reached for the book from my hands and read them aloud to me. They had each taken turns, and some pages, collectively, spending that half hour filling in the blanks. It couldn't have been more perfect a gift, and I will treasure it for all my days. Here's a few of their entries. I love your hugs, and helping with the boys. I love hearing stories about your crazy adventures. You inspire me to always think of others first. I love it when you call me "Peep-Pie" and "Sweet Pea". (you know I'm going to list them all...ha). I'm humbled by your generosity. I love remembering the time when we went prom dress shopping with the Lazenby crew. I'm thankful I got your smile and your kind heart. I love that you still are a phone call away for us. I hope to be as kind to people as you one day. I am so lucky that you're our Mom. I love how you never give up. I love how you always listen to me bitch. When I was little, I loved to watch you fart around in the outside. If I had to describe you in one word, it would be love. I'd love it if we could spend more time together soon. If you were a dance, you'd be the 2 step. I love getting advice on life. You have the prettiest heart. I never get tired of your hugs and kisses. I love how you never get tired of my bitching. You are so knowledgeable, so loving and so caring. If you were a scent, you'd be vanilla. I love that you encourage me never to give up. Sometimes your ability to stay sane amazes me. It makes me laugh to think how you dealt with us. I'd be lost without your love. I love that you taught me about life. You are the best mom ever. I love how good you are at listening. When we are apart, it makes me happy to think about you. I wish I had known you when you were younger. I love going to family things with you. I love your taste in fashion. (ha ha) (fanny pack). I hope you get to visit your favorite graveyard soon. If you wanted to you could easily run away (but you don't). I have to admit you're always right about "someone or something at your job". I love that fanny pack that you still wear. I admire your dedication to us. You deserve the best mom award. I love the sound of your voice when you say I love you. I love that you love my bitchiness and kids. I love to play UNO with you. I still can't believe you put up with us. I love it when you giggle like a kid. I love how you have such strong feelings. I always want to hear what you're going to say about what the kids say around you. It makes me smile when you smile. I love to do special stuff for you. Nobody else can understand like you. Thank you for being our Mom.
*Penned by Loretta
"Love knows not it's depths, until the hour of separation". Age 14
"EACH DAY COUNTS"
At age 56, when her sister died.
"Sometimes my thoughts splatter out in all directions at once. Kind of like dropping a handful of marbles from a foot above the floor".
Age 64
" Riding the carousel is always fun when I know I'm on the horse in the lead".
"The carousel is still moving. Don't hop off until the music quits".
Age 65
"I may eventually wear out, but I'm never going to just sit down and rust".
Age 68
Dare not to die, but yet with dreams!
Age 3 weeks shy of 69
Rich are those who can count their friends...on more than both hands.
Age 69 4 mo
Loretta, known to her family , as "Dumpy". A nickname that derived from her daddy calling her 'his little Dumplin' as a baby. Her sister, Linda, age 3 at the time, had trouble saying "Dumplin", and so, it affectionately became "Dumpy". She went on to have other nicknames: Hon, Lori, Little Stinker, Hot Rod, Tater, Possum, Short Stop, Pokey-rod, Retta, Uncle Retta, Boss, Stretch. Her most beloved names to be called, however, were "Mom" and "MiMa".
Poetry was one of her loves. Mostly reading and relating to the 'sappy' ones, written by others, but she penned her own poetry as well. She started recording in a ledger, at age 14, those poems and sayings that she would continue to write throughout her lifetime.
As a teen she was a big fan of 'The Beatles' and had their photos taped on her bedroom wall. Then later, she would be introduced to Country Music by her second husband and was 'hooked'. She could be found driving around the gravel roads, windows down, hair blowing, radio or 8-track blaring, singing her heart out. As a pre-teen, her mother took her to piano lessons with Miss Sarah Jane Hale, of Carrollton, MO. and were 50 cents per hour. Coming from a maternal musical family, Loretta's mother had great expectations for her own children to inherit the gift. Sister, Linda was given accordion lessons. She never got very good at it. Brother, Bob, well, he, like Loretta, was good at playing 'the radio'. The piano lessons...let's just say that Loretta was an expert at making the dog howl, and somehow, her father could nap through her practice sessions in the parent's bedroom...the only place for a piano in the house. But, the opportunity was given...Mama at least tried.
According to her only brother, Bob, his memory of the morning of March 1, 1953,..was that it was bitter cold, with lots of snow on the ground, and he had to help daddy gather corn cobs to place under the motor of the old car, then set them afire to warm it enough to start the car for the 10 mile journey to Carrollton to get Mama to the Atwood Hospital in time. He always loved to tease his baby sister of just how much trouble she would cause..from day one.
At 12:15 p.m., just at dinner time (yes, it was breakfast, dinner and supper back then. "Lunch was only served at school), Loretta was born, the third child and second daughter to Edwin Marion Willis and Evelyn Florence (Todd) Willis. They brought her home to the house on the hill along the Wakenda Bluff, on their 8'th wedding anniversary..March 4'th. Welcoming her home, was her only brother, Robert "Bobby"/"Bob" Allen Willis, age 6, and her only sister, Linda "Doodle" Kathaleen Willis, age 3. And so the life began of the little country girl who grew up with cow poo twixt her toes, and was always proud of it.
Loretta's childhood left her with a solid blessing of God, family, love, respect, hard work, hard play, and only the beginnings of the gathering of an immense amount of friends throughout her lifetime.
Only scant pieces of her memory of the days before she started school, stayed with her. She could only remember going to California, by train, to attend her Uncle George's wedding in 1957. She remembered playing with the bride dolls that her parents had gotten for her and her sister to entertain them on the trip. That same doll, would remain in her possession for over 60 years.
She spent her first 8 years of school at the Wakenda Grade School, Wakenda, Missouri. There was no kindergarten classes at that time. With Wakenda having no high school, she rode the bus 10 miles to, and 10 miles back, to attend the Carrollton High School, in Carrollton, Missouri, graduating with the Class of 1971. She had a tough act to follow, since both her brother and sister before her, graduated with a 12 year perfect attendance. Always seeming not to "Conform to Conformity", Loretta thought it be more fun to skip school her Freshman year with 5 other classmates. Having had such a good time that Friday, they decided to do it again the following Friday, and by then the 1958 Chevy was packed double decker with 10 children. Luck seems to run out sometimes..they were caught. Suspended from school for 3 days ( it was called "Kicked out" back then), and the parents, sorely disappointed about that 3'rd child not having a perfect record...she was put to work for three days. Picking out pecans (seemed like a ton of them), planting potatoes..by herself, rows and rows of them, and having to tag along with daddy at his work. There were no more days of skipping school, and a story that she did not tell her two daughters until after they had, themselves, graduated from high school.
And, about grade school. Daddy, Edwin was President of the board of the Wakenda Grade School. Just long enough to be able to personally, and proudly present his 3 children with their 8'th grade diplomas, and hand them their Life's Reading Circle Certificates. Loretta never liked very much to read books, and would rather have taken a beating than to have to stand up in front of the class and give an oral report on one. She carried the guilt her whole life for never deserving of that Life's Reading Certificate. She had already known, early on, that she just didn't have the time, nor desire to waste time reading when she could be OUTSIDE doing something far more interesting. So how did she attain it? She 'made up' stories and authors. Claimed the books came from the Carrollton Library. It was a secret she would never have the nerve to share with her father. However, the teachers must have had empathy and gave her an A for all her stories. A for Amagination? She figured that her sister always read enough for the two of them..often hollering from upstairs when Sis' bed lamp was still on at 1 a.m. "MOM...LINDA STILL HAS HER LIGHT ON AND I CAN"T GO TO SLEEP".
In the summer of 1962, at the age of 9, Loretta got her first job, picking strawberries in Bales' Orchard near Wakenda. The age requirement for employment there, was 12, however, her older brother, and older sister both had jobs at Bales' and the proprieter , Elvin Elliott, told Evelyn "Just bring her along, we'll keep her busy". The pay was 3 cents per quart. Most times, Evelyn spent more on Loretta's packed lunch, than what she earned. But the life's lesson of hard work and dedication would bring rewards of itself. She learned where dimes came from. The heat of the summer's sun left her with tanned hide, but she didn't enjoy having to wear shoes. Summer employment at the orchard would continue through high school, when she wasn't hoeing weeds from bean fields for area farmers, or detasseling corn. During her first year of high school, she sold extra milk for 2 cents a carton in the lunchroom. For this, she was given free lunches and a paycheck of $32 a month, minus taxes. It was then, that at age 14, she would apply for a social security card and open her first bank account. The following three years, she was the cashier at the school, got free lunches, but the government funded program dropped the wage to $8 a month, minus taxes. Following graduation, she fulfilled her dream of getting married, June 26, 1971 at the Wakenda Baptist Church...seemingly her #1 priority over continuing any education. She married her high school sweetheart, Terry Neal Endicott. (Loretta and her sister would first marry brothers, Eddie and Terry, both of which marriages resulted in no children). She soon took employment of a bonified job, working at Banner Biscuit company, also known as Carroll Cookie Factory, in Carrollton, MO. , where she was a line worker , traying cookies. It was a hot place to work in summer months, and anyone who worked there, went home smelling like a cookie. Loretta, almost without fail, packed only a thermos of warm spinach for dinner. After going through a divorce from Terry, and no longer living on Doug Hill, she took employment with Banquet Foods, where she would become a lifetime member of the AMW (Amalgamated Meat Workers), again as a line worker. Night shift, which seemed to suit. She then would marry Michael Kent Hedrick (of Carrollton, MO), who was enlisted in the U.S.Navy, stationed in San Diego, CA. at the time. They were married at the courthouse by a justice of the peace in San Diego, on October 4, 1973. She and Mike were assistant apartment managers of the Point Loma Gardens Apartments in San Diego. Divorcing in 1974, she returned to Carrollton. No children born to this union. Taking a break from married life, she went through several relationships, and worked as a waitress at Co-op Cafe, once known as Bryant's Restaurant. A job she enjoyed, meeting and serving many. It was there that she met and fell in love with Martin Dewitt Rainey, a well driller who worked for Larry's Well & Pump company who had recently moved their business to town and Martin had followed from Kansas City. Martin was given the nickname of "Digger", by Loretta's mother, Evelyn Willis. Martin "Digger" was born and raised in rural Belzoni, Mississippi. He served 4 years in the U.S. Marines, and upon discharge, moved to Blue Springs, MO. in with one of his sister's to seek employment. Digger and Loretta were married by a justice of the peace in Isola, Mississippi on February 6, 1981. They had moved to Isola, MS. in 1979, then later to Belzoni, MS., where they purchased a home. Digger followed Larry's Well & Pump company to his hometown and continued employment there until 1984, when they decided to come back to Carroll County. During their 6 years in Belzoni, Loretta worked at The Varsity Restaurant as a waitress and assistant manager. She took the Civil Service exam and was hired on as a clerk/carrier at the Belzoni Post Office in July of 1981, and began what would be her career of 31 years and 6 days with the United States Postal Service. Digger and Loretta became the proud parents of two daughters, Misty Lynn Rainey in Oct 1982 and Mayla Kate Rainey in July 1984, both born in Greenwood, Mississippi. Bill Bickel, postmaster of the Carrollton Post Office, contacted Loretta in 1984, inquiring if she would be interested in transferring from MS., back home to Carrollton. Two 24' U-Hauls and 8 vehicles brought them back. To include Loretta's family members who drove down to help make it possible. Digger and Loretta purchased a home in December of 1984, and the following May, Digger began his 20 + year career with The Missouri State Highway Department. By 1986, Loretta was appointed as Supervisor of the 17 employees at the Carrollton Post Office. In September of 1991, she took on an OIC (officer in charge) position at the Bogard Post Office, Bogard, MO. On February 20, 1993, she was appointed postmaster, where she would retire from on July 31, 2012 at the age of 59. Her postal career was something she loved dearly, and her patrons were always considered her extended family. Digger and Loretta were divorced in 1993, but remained constant friends and raised their daughters in a way in which there wasn't an ounce of negativity involved. Loretta would then marry , on August 20, 1994, Roger Lee Fones of Carrollton, MO. They purchased a home in Bogard, MO. Loretta would maintain the grounds of their home, and manage and mow the old Bogard School property, beginning in 2006. She would be remembered by spending many hours on "Ole Greenie", the John Deere mower. Something she loved to do...giving time to 'think' while she mowed.
So much could be said for the life of Loretta "Dumpy", the little barefoot girl who loved being outdoors her whole life, and who carried a humanitarian torch for others. Her thoughts and emotions, ran deep, as did her love. Once loved by her, it was for life, no matter what the separation, if any, would be. You were still in her heart. Loretta, the little girl who grew up, contently, on a farm along the Wakenda Bluff. She probably wandered over every inch of that farm, either following at her daddy's heels or that of her mother and siblings, or simply exploring on her own, with her faithful companion, her dog, Sarah Jane. The barn was one of her favorite hangouts, where the loft was filled with cats and kittens and she'd peer down through the cracks to watch her daddy milk the Jersey cows. She'd ride ole "Jughead", her favorite tamed cow, around in the lot, and when he'd open the gate to let them back out in the pasture, she'd ride her while she crossed the road. A nearby creek by the barn, found her there often. Looking for tadpoles, horsehairs, fish and on hot summer nights, not being able to resist to hop in and cool off. Sometimes to her mother's dismay when she'd come to the back door , drenched, and mud or manure between her toes. Life was incredably simple, and good! There were chores to do, but hard work and hard play were equally balanced. Neighbors were no more well off than us. We were all rich, but not monetarily.
Loretta attened Wakenda Grade School..grades 1-8, where she would make lifelong friends. Teachers were respected, same as your parents. The only thing that Loretta didn't care for about school, was reading, and especially the extra books for reports and oral reports were the worst. It would take many years before standing in front of a group would become easier. The class theme for 8'th grade graduation in 1967 was "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". One of Loretta's favorite songs. 10 students graduated, with Edwin Willis, then School Board President, proudly handing Loretta her diploma.
Coming from a military family, to include her ancestors, Loretta was taught early on to have full respect and honor for all those who had served and were presently serving. Her own father offered 4 years of his life to the United States Navy, during which time he would meet and later marry, Loretta's mother. "Dumpy", at 16, stood on the back porch and bawled as she said goodbye to her only brother, who, too, had volunteered to be a 4 year Sailor, and was headed to Vietnam. She thanked the Lord for bringing him home safely. Her only sister gave 22 years to the United States Army. Someone had to stay at home and be of support, Loretta took that on with great pride. However, little did she ever dream, at age 48, she would be standing at the airport, with Digger, as they sent their own Soldier, Misty , off to Afghanistan for a year. Loretta, then knew, what other mothers had truly felt, when their children went off to war. Misty had used her 'pull' at her unit, to make a personalized dog tag to leave with her mother before she boarded the plane. She placed it around her mother's neck, of which Loretta never took off the whole year Misty was gone. It read "Keep this next to your heart. I love you Mom". Another of God's blessings bestowed, when Misty returned, safely, and was the one to take it off. Loretta would go on to wear it at Veteran Day events, held at the Bogard's Soldiers' Memorial Building in Bogard, MO., where she was mostly responsible for making it an annual program to honor all our military, past and present, and served 25 years as treasurer of the board.
Having witnessed her daughters come to be out on their own, and ever so proud of who they had become, at age 49, Loretta learned that she was going to be a grandmother. A grandmother!! She pondered... "How well will I fill this role?". Grandma, aka "MiMa" would be present at the birth of 3 of her grandsons. She was at the hospital with the 4'th, but they wouldn't let her go in the operating room when an emergency C-section was performed. MiMa's finger was the first that he grasped, while his mother was still in recovery. God just kept giving those continued blessings, as both the loss of the lives of her daughter and 4'th grandson had become a very real possibility that day. Upon Mayla's first wellness appointment, Loretta gave the doctor 3 roses. One for her medical ability and compassion to save them, the other two to represent the lives she had saved. "Grandkidding", as MiMa would call it, became second nature. She involved herself with their lives, helping to teach them morals, values, respect, compassion and the goodness of the gift of life. Loretta wouldn't be remembered as the grandmother standing by the oven baking cookies (although there were some occasions of it), but rather by her getting them in the great outdoors as much as possible. One day they would grow up and remember how she would take them along to the cemeteries in search for names on tombstones to fill photo requests for Findagrave. They were just little guys, first learning how to read when they started going along. Sack lunches, plenty to drink on hot days, sticky notes with surnames on them to aid in their searches. But, there was so many examples of things to be learned from these 'wandering and wonderings' when they weren't even aware of it. Respect for the dead, addition, subtraction, honor those who have gone before us, heartache experienced by families, diseases, types of insects, animals and trees while they were there...the list was endless. MiMa would be remembered by her brush piles with hot dog roasts, a shovel in winter to scoop snow from the roof, helping her neighbors with projects, etc., and all the while, incorporating volunteerism, to include her grandsons, so they would know the ways of humanitarianism, with the only reward being the fullness of heart when they are through. With this, and just when MiMa thought that # 4 would be the last to help mentor, Loretta's youngest daughter, Mayla, opened her heart and home, to raise, yet, one more boy. A 43-day old little boy who's mother had been murdered. Although she had her hands full with 4 boys, ranging in the ages of 4 to 15, one more was welcomed. Loretta was proud to see, once again, that her own compassion had been passed down.
Christmas 2017
When a mother's heart bubbles over!!!!! Raising children comes with no instructions. As my girls were growing up, the BATHROOM was the 'revelation place'. "Mom, would you come to the bathroom a minute?" I NEVER knew what the conversation was going to be when they'd lock the door behind us. Here are some examples.."Mom, I got a speeding ticket. Do we have to tell Roger?" "Mom, I emptied all the gas from the lawnmower cans to put in my car, can you fill them up before anyone notices?" "Mom, I'm pregnant..again". So, last night, Christmas Eve, my two grown daughters lock themselves in the bathroom, and I'm NOT invited! Oh Boy!, now what's this about??. During the course of about a half an hour, I hear giggles, and I hear equal amounts of silence. ?? During the course of opening gifts, I find this little purple book. "What I Love About Mom" and signed by "Us Girls". I can't even begin to tell of the gamet of emotions that ran as I read the first 5 pages, of 50. Misty, seeing that this was going to 'take a while', reached for the book from my hands and read them aloud to me. They had each taken turns, and some pages, collectively, spending that half hour filling in the blanks. It couldn't have been more perfect a gift, and I will treasure it for all my days. Here's a few of their entries. I love your hugs, and helping with the boys. I love hearing stories about your crazy adventures. You inspire me to always think of others first. I love it when you call me "Peep-Pie" and "Sweet Pea". (you know I'm going to list them all...ha). I'm humbled by your generosity. I love remembering the time when we went prom dress shopping with the Lazenby crew. I'm thankful I got your smile and your kind heart. I love that you still are a phone call away for us. I hope to be as kind to people as you one day. I am so lucky that you're our Mom. I love how you never give up. I love how you always listen to me bitch. When I was little, I loved to watch you fart around in the outside. If I had to describe you in one word, it would be love. I'd love it if we could spend more time together soon. If you were a dance, you'd be the 2 step. I love getting advice on life. You have the prettiest heart. I never get tired of your hugs and kisses. I love how you never get tired of my bitching. You are so knowledgeable, so loving and so caring. If you were a scent, you'd be vanilla. I love that you encourage me never to give up. Sometimes your ability to stay sane amazes me. It makes me laugh to think how you dealt with us. I'd be lost without your love. I love that you taught me about life. You are the best mom ever. I love how good you are at listening. When we are apart, it makes me happy to think about you. I wish I had known you when you were younger. I love going to family things with you. I love your taste in fashion. (ha ha) (fanny pack). I hope you get to visit your favorite graveyard soon. If you wanted to you could easily run away (but you don't). I have to admit you're always right about "someone or something at your job". I love that fanny pack that you still wear. I admire your dedication to us. You deserve the best mom award. I love the sound of your voice when you say I love you. I love that you love my bitchiness and kids. I love to play UNO with you. I still can't believe you put up with us. I love it when you giggle like a kid. I love how you have such strong feelings. I always want to hear what you're going to say about what the kids say around you. It makes me smile when you smile. I love to do special stuff for you. Nobody else can understand like you. Thank you for being our Mom.
"Love knows not it's depths, until the hour of separation". Age 14
"EACH DAY COUNTS"
At age 56, when her sister died.
"Sometimes my thoughts splatter out in all directions at once. Kind of like dropping a handful of marbles from a foot above the floor".
Age 64
" Riding the carousel is always fun when I know I'm on the horse in the lead".
"The carousel is still moving. Don't hop off until the music quits".
Age 65
"I may eventually wear out, but I'm never going to just sit down and rust".
Age 68
Dare not to die, but yet with dreams!
Age 3 weeks shy of 69
Rich are those who can count their friends...on more than both hands.
Age 69 4 mo
Loretta, known to her family , as "Dumpy". A nickname that derived from her daddy calling her 'his little Dumplin' as a baby. Her sister, Linda, age 3 at the time, had trouble saying "Dumplin", and so, it affectionately became "Dumpy". She went on to have other nicknames: Hon, Lori, Little Stinker, Hot Rod, Tater, Possum, Short Stop, Pokey-rod, Retta, Uncle Retta, Boss, Stretch. Her most beloved names to be called, however, were "Mom" and "MiMa".
Poetry was one of her loves. Mostly reading and relating to the 'sappy' ones, written by others, but she penned her own poetry as well. She started recording in a ledger, at age 14, those poems and sayings that she would continue to write throughout her lifetime.
As a teen she was a big fan of 'The Beatles' and had their photos taped on her bedroom wall. Then later, she would be introduced to Country Music by her second husband and was 'hooked'. She could be found driving around the gravel roads, windows down, hair blowing, radio or 8-track blaring, singing her heart out. As a pre-teen, her mother took her to piano lessons with Miss Sarah Jane Hale, of Carrollton, MO. and were 50 cents per hour. Coming from a maternal musical family, Loretta's mother had great expectations for her own children to inherit the gift. Sister, Linda was given accordion lessons. She never got very good at it. Brother, Bob, well, he, like Loretta, was good at playing 'the radio'. The piano lessons...let's just say that Loretta was an expert at making the dog howl, and somehow, her father could nap through her practice sessions in the parent's bedroom...the only place for a piano in the house. But, the opportunity was given...Mama at least tried.
According to her only brother, Bob, his memory of the morning of March 1, 1953,..was that it was bitter cold, with lots of snow on the ground, and he had to help daddy gather corn cobs to place under the motor of the old car, then set them afire to warm it enough to start the car for the 10 mile journey to Carrollton to get Mama to the Atwood Hospital in time. He always loved to tease his baby sister of just how much trouble she would cause..from day one.
At 12:15 p.m., just at dinner time (yes, it was breakfast, dinner and supper back then. "Lunch was only served at school), Loretta was born, the third child and second daughter to Edwin Marion Willis and Evelyn Florence (Todd) Willis. They brought her home to the house on the hill along the Wakenda Bluff, on their 8'th wedding anniversary..March 4'th. Welcoming her home, was her only brother, Robert "Bobby"/"Bob" Allen Willis, age 6, and her only sister, Linda "Doodle" Kathaleen Willis, age 3. And so the life began of the little country girl who grew up with cow poo twixt her toes, and was always proud of it.
Loretta's childhood left her with a solid blessing of God, family, love, respect, hard work, hard play, and only the beginnings of the gathering of an immense amount of friends throughout her lifetime.
Only scant pieces of her memory of the days before she started school, stayed with her. She could only remember going to California, by train, to attend her Uncle George's wedding in 1957. She remembered playing with the bride dolls that her parents had gotten for her and her sister to entertain them on the trip. That same doll, would remain in her possession for over 60 years.
She spent her first 8 years of school at the Wakenda Grade School, Wakenda, Missouri. There was no kindergarten classes at that time. With Wakenda having no high school, she rode the bus 10 miles to, and 10 miles back, to attend the Carrollton High School, in Carrollton, Missouri, graduating with the Class of 1971. She had a tough act to follow, since both her brother and sister before her, graduated with a 12 year perfect attendance. Always seeming not to "Conform to Conformity", Loretta thought it be more fun to skip school her Freshman year with 5 other classmates. Having had such a good time that Friday, they decided to do it again the following Friday, and by then the 1958 Chevy was packed double decker with 10 children. Luck seems to run out sometimes..they were caught. Suspended from school for 3 days ( it was called "Kicked out" back then), and the parents, sorely disappointed about that 3'rd child not having a perfect record...she was put to work for three days. Picking out pecans (seemed like a ton of them), planting potatoes..by herself, rows and rows of them, and having to tag along with daddy at his work. There were no more days of skipping school, and a story that she did not tell her two daughters until after they had, themselves, graduated from high school.
And, about grade school. Daddy, Edwin was President of the board of the Wakenda Grade School. Just long enough to be able to personally, and proudly present his 3 children with their 8'th grade diplomas, and hand them their Life's Reading Circle Certificates. Loretta never liked very much to read books, and would rather have taken a beating than to have to stand up in front of the class and give an oral report on one. She carried the guilt her whole life for never deserving of that Life's Reading Certificate. She had already known, early on, that she just didn't have the time, nor desire to waste time reading when she could be OUTSIDE doing something far more interesting. So how did she attain it? She 'made up' stories and authors. Claimed the books came from the Carrollton Library. It was a secret she would never have the nerve to share with her father. However, the teachers must have had empathy and gave her an A for all her stories. A for Amagination? She figured that her sister always read enough for the two of them..often hollering from upstairs when Sis' bed lamp was still on at 1 a.m. "MOM...LINDA STILL HAS HER LIGHT ON AND I CAN"T GO TO SLEEP".
In the summer of 1962, at the age of 9, Loretta got her first job, picking strawberries in Bales' Orchard near Wakenda. The age requirement for employment there, was 12, however, her older brother, and older sister both had jobs at Bales' and the proprieter , Elvin Elliott, told Evelyn "Just bring her along, we'll keep her busy". The pay was 3 cents per quart. Most times, Evelyn spent more on Loretta's packed lunch, than what she earned. But the life's lesson of hard work and dedication would bring rewards of itself. She learned where dimes came from. The heat of the summer's sun left her with tanned hide, but she didn't enjoy having to wear shoes. Summer employment at the orchard would continue through high school, when she wasn't hoeing weeds from bean fields for area farmers, or detasseling corn. During her first year of high school, she sold extra milk for 2 cents a carton in the lunchroom. For this, she was given free lunches and a paycheck of $32 a month, minus taxes. It was then, that at age 14, she would apply for a social security card and open her first bank account. The following three years, she was the cashier at the school, got free lunches, but the government funded program dropped the wage to $8 a month, minus taxes. Following graduation, she fulfilled her dream of getting married, June 26, 1971 at the Wakenda Baptist Church...seemingly her #1 priority over continuing any education. She married her high school sweetheart, Terry Neal Endicott. (Loretta and her sister would first marry brothers, Eddie and Terry, both of which marriages resulted in no children). She soon took employment of a bonified job, working at Banner Biscuit company, also known as Carroll Cookie Factory, in Carrollton, MO. , where she was a line worker , traying cookies. It was a hot place to work in summer months, and anyone who worked there, went home smelling like a cookie. Loretta, almost without fail, packed only a thermos of warm spinach for dinner. After going through a divorce from Terry, and no longer living on Doug Hill, she took employment with Banquet Foods, where she would become a lifetime member of the AMW (Amalgamated Meat Workers), again as a line worker. Night shift, which seemed to suit. She then would marry Michael Kent Hedrick (of Carrollton, MO), who was enlisted in the U.S.Navy, stationed in San Diego, CA. at the time. They were married at the courthouse by a justice of the peace in San Diego, on October 4, 1973. She and Mike were assistant apartment managers of the Point Loma Gardens Apartments in San Diego. Divorcing in 1974, she returned to Carrollton. No children born to this union. Taking a break from married life, she went through several relationships, and worked as a waitress at Co-op Cafe, once known as Bryant's Restaurant. A job she enjoyed, meeting and serving many. It was there that she met and fell in love with Martin Dewitt Rainey, a well driller who worked for Larry's Well & Pump company who had recently moved their business to town and Martin had followed from Kansas City. Martin was given the nickname of "Digger", by Loretta's mother, Evelyn Willis. Martin "Digger" was born and raised in rural Belzoni, Mississippi. He served 4 years in the U.S. Marines, and upon discharge, moved to Blue Springs, MO. in with one of his sister's to seek employment. Digger and Loretta were married by a justice of the peace in Isola, Mississippi on February 6, 1981. They had moved to Isola, MS. in 1979, then later to Belzoni, MS., where they purchased a home. Digger followed Larry's Well & Pump company to his hometown and continued employment there until 1984, when they decided to come back to Carroll County. During their 6 years in Belzoni, Loretta worked at The Varsity Restaurant as a waitress and assistant manager. She took the Civil Service exam and was hired on as a clerk/carrier at the Belzoni Post Office in July of 1981, and began what would be her career of 31 years and 6 days with the United States Postal Service. Digger and Loretta became the proud parents of two daughters, Misty Lynn Rainey in Oct 1982 and Mayla Kate Rainey in July 1984, both born in Greenwood, Mississippi. Bill Bickel, postmaster of the Carrollton Post Office, contacted Loretta in 1984, inquiring if she would be interested in transferring from MS., back home to Carrollton. Two 24' U-Hauls and 8 vehicles brought them back. To include Loretta's family members who drove down to help make it possible. Digger and Loretta purchased a home in December of 1984, and the following May, Digger began his 20 + year career with The Missouri State Highway Department. By 1986, Loretta was appointed as Supervisor of the 17 employees at the Carrollton Post Office. In September of 1991, she took on an OIC (officer in charge) position at the Bogard Post Office, Bogard, MO. On February 20, 1993, she was appointed postmaster, where she would retire from on July 31, 2012 at the age of 59. Her postal career was something she loved dearly, and her patrons were always considered her extended family. Digger and Loretta were divorced in 1993, but remained constant friends and raised their daughters in a way in which there wasn't an ounce of negativity involved. Loretta would then marry , on August 20, 1994, Roger Lee Fones of Carrollton, MO. They purchased a home in Bogard, MO. Loretta would maintain the grounds of their home, and manage and mow the old Bogard School property, beginning in 2006. She would be remembered by spending many hours on "Ole Greenie", the John Deere mower. Something she loved to do...giving time to 'think' while she mowed.
So much could be said for the life of Loretta "Dumpy", the little barefoot girl who loved being outdoors her whole life, and who carried a humanitarian torch for others. Her thoughts and emotions, ran deep, as did her love. Once loved by her, it was for life, no matter what the separation, if any, would be. You were still in her heart. Loretta, the little girl who grew up, contently, on a farm along the Wakenda Bluff. She probably wandered over every inch of that farm, either following at her daddy's heels or that of her mother and siblings, or simply exploring on her own, with her faithful companion, her dog, Sarah Jane. The barn was one of her favorite hangouts, where the loft was filled with cats and kittens and she'd peer down through the cracks to watch her daddy milk the Jersey cows. She'd ride ole "Jughead", her favorite tamed cow, around in the lot, and when he'd open the gate to let them back out in the pasture, she'd ride her while she crossed the road. A nearby creek by the barn, found her there often. Looking for tadpoles, horsehairs, fish and on hot summer nights, not being able to resist to hop in and cool off. Sometimes to her mother's dismay when she'd come to the back door , drenched, and mud or manure between her toes. Life was incredably simple, and good! There were chores to do, but hard work and hard play were equally balanced. Neighbors were no more well off than us. We were all rich, but not monetarily.
Loretta attened Wakenda Grade School..grades 1-8, where she would make lifelong friends. Teachers were respected, same as your parents. The only thing that Loretta didn't care for about school, was reading, and especially the extra books for reports and oral reports were the worst. It would take many years before standing in front of a group would become easier. The class theme for 8'th grade graduation in 1967 was "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". One of Loretta's favorite songs. 10 students graduated, with Edwin Willis, then School Board President, proudly handing Loretta her diploma.
Coming from a military family, to include her ancestors, Loretta was taught early on to have full respect and honor for all those who had served and were presently serving. Her own father offered 4 years of his life to the United States Navy, during which time he would meet and later marry, Loretta's mother. "Dumpy", at 16, stood on the back porch and bawled as she said goodbye to her only brother, who, too, had volunteered to be a 4 year Sailor, and was headed to Vietnam. She thanked the Lord for bringing him home safely. Her only sister gave 22 years to the United States Army. Someone had to stay at home and be of support, Loretta took that on with great pride. However, little did she ever dream, at age 48, she would be standing at the airport, with Digger, as they sent their own Soldier, Misty , off to Afghanistan for a year. Loretta, then knew, what other mothers had truly felt, when their children went off to war. Misty had used her 'pull' at her unit, to make a personalized dog tag to leave with her mother before she boarded the plane. She placed it around her mother's neck, of which Loretta never took off the whole year Misty was gone. It read "Keep this next to your heart. I love you Mom". Another of God's blessings bestowed, when Misty returned, safely, and was the one to take it off. Loretta would go on to wear it at Veteran Day events, held at the Bogard's Soldiers' Memorial Building in Bogard, MO., where she was mostly responsible for making it an annual program to honor all our military, past and present, and served 25 years as treasurer of the board.
Having witnessed her daughters come to be out on their own, and ever so proud of who they had become, at age 49, Loretta learned that she was going to be a grandmother. A grandmother!! She pondered... "How well will I fill this role?". Grandma, aka "MiMa" would be present at the birth of 3 of her grandsons. She was at the hospital with the 4'th, but they wouldn't let her go in the operating room when an emergency C-section was performed. MiMa's finger was the first that he grasped, while his mother was still in recovery. God just kept giving those continued blessings, as both the loss of the lives of her daughter and 4'th grandson had become a very real possibility that day. Upon Mayla's first wellness appointment, Loretta gave the doctor 3 roses. One for her medical ability and compassion to save them, the other two to represent the lives she had saved. "Grandkidding", as MiMa would call it, became second nature. She involved herself with their lives, helping to teach them morals, values, respect, compassion and the goodness of the gift of life. Loretta wouldn't be remembered as the grandmother standing by the oven baking cookies (although there were some occasions of it), but rather by her getting them in the great outdoors as much as possible. One day they would grow up and remember how she would take them along to the cemeteries in search for names on tombstones to fill photo requests for Findagrave. They were just little guys, first learning how to read when they started going along. Sack lunches, plenty to drink on hot days, sticky notes with surnames on them to aid in their searches. But, there was so many examples of things to be learned from these 'wandering and wonderings' when they weren't even aware of it. Respect for the dead, addition, subtraction, honor those who have gone before us, heartache experienced by families, diseases, types of insects, animals and trees while they were there...the list was endless. MiMa would be remembered by her brush piles with hot dog roasts, a shovel in winter to scoop snow from the roof, helping her neighbors with projects, etc., and all the while, incorporating volunteerism, to include her grandsons, so they would know the ways of humanitarianism, with the only reward being the fullness of heart when they are through. With this, and just when MiMa thought that # 4 would be the last to help mentor, Loretta's youngest daughter, Mayla, opened her heart and home, to raise, yet, one more boy. A 43-day old little boy who's mother had been murdered. Although she had her hands full with 4 boys, ranging in the ages of 4 to 15, one more was welcomed. Loretta was proud to see, once again, that her own compassion had been passed down.
Christmas 2017
When a mother's heart bubbles over!!!!! Raising children comes with no instructions. As my girls were growing up, the BATHROOM was the 'revelation place'. "Mom, would you come to the bathroom a minute?" I NEVER knew what the conversation was going to be when they'd lock the door behind us. Here are some examples.."Mom, I got a speeding ticket. Do we have to tell Roger?" "Mom, I emptied all the gas from the lawnmower cans to put in my car, can you fill them up before anyone notices?" "Mom, I'm pregnant..again". So, last night, Christmas Eve, my two grown daughters lock themselves in the bathroom, and I'm NOT invited! Oh Boy!, now what's this about??. During the course of about a half an hour, I hear giggles, and I hear equal amounts of silence. ?? During the course of opening gifts, I find this little purple book. "What I Love About Mom" and signed by "Us Girls". I can't even begin to tell of the gamet of emotions that ran as I read the first 5 pages, of 50. Misty, seeing that this was going to 'take a while', reached for the book from my hands and read them aloud to me. They had each taken turns, and some pages, collectively, spending that half hour filling in the blanks. It couldn't have been more perfect a gift, and I will treasure it for all my days. Here's a few of their entries. I love your hugs, and helping with the boys. I love hearing stories about your crazy adventures. You inspire me to always think of others first. I love it when you call me "Peep-Pie" and "Sweet Pea". (you know I'm going to list them all...ha). I'm humbled by your generosity. I love remembering the time when we went prom dress shopping with the Lazenby crew. I'm thankful I got your smile and your kind heart. I love that you still are a phone call away for us. I hope to be as kind to people as you one day. I am so lucky that you're our Mom. I love how you never give up. I love how you always listen to me bitch. When I was little, I loved to watch you fart around in the outside. If I had to describe you in one word, it would be love. I'd love it if we could spend more time together soon. If you were a dance, you'd be the 2 step. I love getting advice on life. You have the prettiest heart. I never get tired of your hugs and kisses. I love how you never get tired of my bitching. You are so knowledgeable, so loving and so caring. If you were a scent, you'd be vanilla. I love that you encourage me never to give up. Sometimes your ability to stay sane amazes me. It makes me laugh to think how you dealt with us. I'd be lost without your love. I love that you taught me about life. You are the best mom ever. I love how good you are at listening. When we are apart, it makes me happy to think about you. I wish I had known you when you were younger. I love going to family things with you. I love your taste in fashion. (ha ha) (fanny pack). I hope you get to visit your favorite graveyard soon. If you wanted to you could easily run away (but you don't). I have to admit you're always right about "someone or something at your job". I love that fanny pack that you still wear. I admire your dedication to us. You deserve the best mom award. I love the sound of your voice when you say I love you. I love that you love my bitchiness and kids. I love to play UNO with you. I still can't believe you put up with us. I love it when you giggle like a kid. I love how you have such strong feelings. I always want to hear what you're going to say about what the kids say around you. It makes me smile when you smile. I love to do special stuff for you. Nobody else can understand like you. Thank you for being our Mom.
Family Members
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See more Rainey-Fones or Willis memorials in:
- Evergreen Cemetery Rainey-Fones or Willis
- De Witt Rainey-Fones or Willis
- Carroll County Rainey-Fones or Willis
- Missouri Rainey-Fones or Willis
- USA Rainey-Fones or Willis
- Find a Grave Rainey-Fones or Willis
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