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In 2014, I visited the Poplarville Storytellers Guild on a tip from a friend who thought the Storytellers might provide an interesting story. The members welcomed me with open arms. I wrote about them for several venues, in- cluding here in Southern Senior. I became a member of the group and participated in several special events with them including the Blueberry Jubilee. Each year, the Sto- rytellers open the event with Friday evening storytelling. Folks bring their lawn chairs and gather round to listen at this free event. The first time I got up to “tell” at Jubilee, I was terrified. Who did I think I was to stand in the presence of these amazing storytellers? But I did it. When I finished my story and headed back to my seat, “Papa Joe Wesley,” our award-winning storyteller, stopped me and took my hand. “You’re a real storyteller now,” he said. “You’ve told at Jubilee.” He winked at me and smiled. I treasure the memory of that evening. His kind words and smile made the earlier doubts fade away. If “Papa Joe” said I was a storyteller, well then… But that the kind of man he was. He lifted people up and encouraged them. He gave them smiles and joy. Just being in the same room with him was a blessing. And children? Oh, my goodness, children flocked to him like he was candy! He shared his magic with them, making them laugh along with his outrageous stories. There was a lot more to Papa Joe than storytelling. His obituary lists military and business accomplishments as well as his faith-based community work. 8 SOUTHERN SENIOR MAGAZINE | Spring 2024 By Mary Beth Magee www.LOL4.net Remembering Papa Joe Wesley (September 28, 1951 – March 8, 2024)