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I didn’t know those aspects of him. I knew him as a Christian, a Gideon, a storyteller. He was a wonderful human being. When we lost him on March 8, we lost a Mis- sissippi treasure. His sto- ries will live on because that’s how we as story- tellers honor our fallen comrades. But there will not be another Papa Joe. The Storyteller He drives to town in a well-used truck. Scratched paint boasts its history of work. Faded blue overalls, worn soft with years, Carry a patch or two, but still fit. Why bother with new when old still serves? He comes from a time when pride was earned By working and serving and saving, When loyalty and courage counted. Now he walks with a long, knotty stick. Part aid, part prop, he leans on it only slightly. His once dark hair has grayed, grown shaggy. Cheeks, once clean shaven are draped in beard. He tells his stories with heart and style, Adding a wink when warranted or a smile. He tells of marching to war, fighting a varmint or seeing a king. History springs to life in his words and youngsters listen, enchanted By his tales of work and travel, mischief and heroics. No game or device can dethrone him, No special effect can replace him. He tells the stories, mostly true, of a different era. Only slight embellishments, you know, tiny exaggera- tions. Because he is, all told, The Storyteller. So long as he tells, the stories live. So long as we listen, he tells them. The Storyteller and his Stories, A magic pair to thrill the audience. Rest in peace, Papa Joe. Heaven has gained a grand storyteller. © 2024 Mary Beth Magee Author/speaker/storyteller Mary Beth Magee writes cozy Christian fiction, poetry, children’s books, and devotions. She is proud to be a member of the Poplarville Story- tellers Guild. For more on her writing and training ses- sions, visit her website at www.LOL4.net . S www.southernsenior.info 9