Hugh Sproles

Hugh and I were best friends in High School, and remained close for several years after graduation. He was a great combination of serious and silly. We were in AFJROTC together, he was a groomsman in my first wedding, and the first person I spoke to the night I found out that marriage was ending. Through thick or thin, I knew I could count on him. Any time our classmates have gotten together over the years, someone always asked if anyone had heard from Hugh. He always was and always will be remembered fondly. 

I’m deeply saddened to learn that my best childhood friend passed away, and even more heartbroken to find he has been laid to rest in a potter’s field. I wish I could say more about the adult Hugh, but my memories are mostly of the boy I knew growing up.

Hugh and I became friends as toddlers in Rock Hill, SC, and we spent countless days and summers together until we were about 11. We had wild imaginations and looked forward to Friday nights watching The Dukes of Hazzard and Wonder Woman. Hugh was incredibly smart and never missed a chance to remind everyone just how much smarter he was. He was mischievous and always seemed to know how to get his way with our parents.

Though our lives took different paths as we grew older, I’ve never forgotten him. I often wonder what kind of man he became. The memories of our childhood adventures and the heroes we pretended to be still bring a smile to my face.

Hugh will always hold a special place in my heart. I pray you’re with Jesus now, my old friend.