In Memory Of John Mcneely Poem by William B. Watterson

A consummate Southern gentleman, he had
A pleasant easy drawl, so smooth and slow
It tickled your ears and made you smile to hear
Him say, "Hello." My next-door neighbor for
Eighteen years, he walked with a cane, his leg
Still stiff from an auto crash many years ago.
But as he moved through life with graciousness
And grace, he gently tapped his way into
The heart and soul of everyone he knew.
He was a gentleman and a gentle man,
Who softly spoke with kindness in his voice.

Beyond my yard, his house stands empty now,
Curtains drawn, windows dark, door forever shut.
But as I peer through lightly falling snow,
In my mind's eye I seem to see him there,
Moving on with accepting calm and grace,
A gentle spirit, smiling and serene.
His legacy secure, he'll always be
Remembered as my neighbor and my friend.