By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

Being raised the first six years of her life on a farm near Clanton, then moving into town for school, firmed Caroline Dickinson’s belief in nature, family and friends. The most important change brought about by the move was that her relationship with God grew until she accepted Jesus. That relationship has never failed her.

In elementary and high school, there was always her lifelong friend, sweetheart and now husband Jimmy Fulmer.

After their high school graduation Jimmy attended Virginia Military Institute and Caroline graduated from the University of Montevallo.

On Sept. 23, they will observe their 50th wedding anniversary. Daughter Julie and son-in-law Randy Littleton, granddaughters Carrie Beth, Anna Kathryn, Celeste Littleton and daughter Joyce Garrison and her husband Sean round out their family.

Fulmer’s favorite thing to do is cook for her family and relax at the beach (although Jimmy wants an Alaskan cruise). Fulmer is perfectly happy with her home, biological family and, of course, her First Baptist Church family. As a member of First Baptist of Alabaster for 41 years, she began working there when her “babies were babies.” Fulmer has now served as the kindergarten director for 43 years.

“I am so blessed to continue working with children and some of the best people in the world,” said Fulmer. Jesus is her sustaining rock and her goal is for children and families who come through the kindergarten program to see Christian examples through the staff and of course, herself.

If money were not an issue, she said would give more to missions to further the kingdom of God, provide more for her children and grandchildren, give her staff the salary increases they deserve and give Ms. Donna (a longtime teacher there) $1 million. “Why? Because that’s what she asks for every time I ask her what supplies she needs,” she said.

When asked to express the biggest difference in today’s kids and those of the ‘70s, Fulmer remarked that kids today are physically larger, more independent and that, in general, parents are more ready to let their little ones go.

Fulmer wants to be remembered as being kind, fair, compassionate and having a smile for every child. In her church life, she is involved in Sunday school and mission activities.

Fulmer plans to do her part while maintaining good health, living for Jesus, continuing to work and vacationing often.

“I have had and am having a wonderful life,” she said.

Community columnist Sandra Thames can be reached by email at bobthames1942@yahoo.com.