Debbie Richardson Otwell

My brothers (Stewart & Mark) and I transferred from a Ruston school to Simsboro School when I was starting the 6th grade.
This was the first time I had ever changed schools and it was very scary. My teacher Mrs. Mary V. Durrett warmly and lovingly
made me feel welcomed and included. Being the “new kid” in such a small school and small town was surprisingly fun. We eventually
got to know all the students, teachers, staff, parents, townspeople, and town characters. It was amazing how everyone knew everyone!
It was such a great school and community to grow up with.

After graduating in 1976 from Simsboro High, I went to LA Tech, met my husband Ricky, settled down outside of Ruston and raised 3 wonderful
sons. My husband, a Ruston High graduate, and I still debate the pros and cons of large and small schools.

I am the sales manager at Mitcham Farms which as many of you know is the largest peach orchard in Louisiana. The orchard will be gone soon,
but we are developing new ideas to continue the business and I hope to be here for many more years. I see many of the people from school
days from Simsboro when they come to buy peaches and things from our gift shop. Seeing old friends is one of the best parts of my job. Even
though it has been 35 years ago, it seems like only yesterday that we cheered for the Tigers together.

Debra (Debbie) Richardson Otwell
Class of 1976