Like so many others from Siloam Springs High School, I was fortunate to have Mrs. Free as my drama teacher during those important adolescent years.  She was definitely a GOOD ONE!  One memory that really stands out to me is: right before opening night of our Senior Class Play, Mrs. Free came backstage to make sure we were all ready, and give us her pre-show pep talk.  This particular night, she had on a beautifully tailored tweed looking suit.  Grayish/tan with a fitted jacket and pencil skirt.  It also had a darker brown velvet collar maybe, with matching velvet buttons.  She wore a scarf under it, tucked perfectly in to an ascot style.  She looked absolutely beautiful.  I came up to her and told her how amazing she looked.  Without missing a beat, she stated to me:  "This is my Designing Women, Dixie Carter, butt whooping outfit".  (Keep in mind, this happened in 1991-1992).  We both had a chuckle over her response.  For over 30 years, any time I catch a Designing Women rerun on TV, I am reminded of my sweet, amazing drama teacher.  To me, Mrs. Free had all those same qualities of the Julia Sugarbaker character:  gorgeous, artistic, brilliant, funny, strong, and definitely unapologetically a true Southern Belle.  Mrs. Free awarded me the "Outstanding Drama Student of the Year" award in 1992, and I never ventured far from the stage, even if it was only locally.  I was INCREDIBLY honored when Mrs. Free, and a couple other teachers: Mrs. Flory, and Mrs. Morris came to my directorial debut of my favorite show, "Our Town" a few years ago, and gave me a special gift.  I am so happy to have a photo from that night.  To Mr. and Mrs. Free's children:  Thank you for sharing your parents with all of us in Siloam Springs (your Dad was also a BIG part of my time in Key Club, so I knew him well).  They both, without fail, attended any show I was ever in on that community theater stage well after my high school days were over.  I hope you all are comforted knowing that for this Siloam kid...both your parents made a difference.  For the rest of you, please thank a teacher from your past.  They will love it.  And so will you.  Thank YOU, Mrs. Free...for being there for me.  Praying for the family.    -Jeremy Kelly, Siloam Springs High School Graduate, 1992