The Portal High School Class of 1955 celebrated their 70th reunion on August 16, 2025 at Ocean Galley in Statesboro. Out of the original 27 graduates, 6 attended: Jackie Anderson (with wife Kay), Shelby Mixon Rogers, Shelby Griffith Williford, Luree Bowen, Evelyn Deal Smith, and Maurice Lanier Dunaway (classmate). Madelyn Lee Arnett was not present.
Known for being “close like family,” the Class of ’55 shared a deep bond, caring about each other and their families. They remembered the ‘3 Shelbys’ in their class: Shelby Griffith Williford, Shelby Rocker Rigdon (who passed away 2016 ), and Shelby Mixon Rogers.
Jackie Anderson and R.V. Williford (known as ‘Woody’ and ‘Crow’ to their coach) were standout basketball players. Angela Williford, daughter of R.V. and Shelby Williford, recalled an old story from their basketball days. “Their coach told them to pinch their opponents and pinch them hard,” Angela said. The team finished as state runners-up in Williford and Anderson's senior year.
“Mama and Daddy were high school sweethearts," Angela said. "Daddy even passed school by cheating off her paper and anybody sitting near him.”
Another cherished memory for the Willifords was the senior class trip to Washington, D.C. “We went by train for a few days," Shelby Williford said. "Some of our classmates were able to go on this trip, a true financial miracle. We all came up with the money and made the sacrifice.”
Portal High held special meaning for the Williford family. Angela added, “Mama’s parents graduated from there, along with several other family members.”
The evening was filled with laughter and gratitude. As the classmates parted, they agreed: “We’ll meet again next year. Go Panthers!”
Thanks to Ocean Galley and everyone who made this special day possible!