Dear Stedmon Parker,

Today I found out you passed away. How and why, I don't know. It's been years since I've seen you, but I really do miss you. I'll never forget how you were one of the few people who would talk to me in elementary school which helped me not feel like an alien. Thanks for being my friend.

I remember this one time we were walking out of class and we were talking about sharks (we were in 4th or 5th grade) because I had just shared something to the class about sharks/marine life from my Big Book of Knowledge (which I hit you with for teasing me, haha). Your amazing laugh and smile and sense of humor will never be forgotten. Thanks for not making fun of me when I told the class I wanted to be a marine biologist.

God is good ALL the time and there is at least one good reason He called you home. I'm praying for your family. Love you, old friend.

—Emmalyd