By Amanda Pevey
Elmore/Autauga News
The Robert E. Lee High School Class of 61’ meets every five years to spend time with each other. When COVID hit back in 2019, it delayed their reunion. This year was their 61st Class Reunion.
The committee decided to use their remaining funds to give to someone in need. Jake Fannin today lives in Millbrook, and is the Chairman of the board for the committee. He knew of another previous Millbrook resident that could use the funds.
Jacob Clackley was born with cerebral palsy and does not have the full use off his legs. He has been using an older wheelchair that was damaged. Fannin knew a scooter would help with his mobility.
Fannin has known Jacob for the past 15 years, and knew his need was legitimate. The two have formed a wonderful friendship over the years.
When the EAN met with Jacob, he talked of his grandfather who was very instrumental in his life. His grandfather, Hallet Brenton Jones Jr., would say, “No matter what, you got to do what you need to do. It’s not going to be easy, but you got to do it.” There are always challenges in life, but those challenges have to be faced.
Hallet passed in 2019, but his strength and advice stays with Jacob.
“I am very thankful for my scooter that the Class of 61’ purchased for me,” said Jacob.
He continued, “It has been very convenient, and I can charge it up and it will last about a week. I have been using my wheelchair for past the 10 years, but it has been falling apart, and not functional. When I needed to get somewhere, I would just crawl to where I needed to go.”
Jake Fannin, Mike Motley, and Paul Owens met with Jacob and his fiancé, Whitney Banks, at Leisure Isle RV Park and Campground in Montgomery earlier this year. Jacob wanted to show the Class of 61’ how much he enjoys his new scooter, and how thankful he is to receive this amazing gift.
Fannin, Motley and Owens have been best friends since 1957.
If anyone would like to make a monetary donation for a new manual wheelchair for Jacob Clackley, as a back up, or if someone has a good, working, wheelchair he can have, please email Jake Fannin at: [email protected]
You can also, email him with any questions about the monetary donation or wheelchair information.
