I was a young fellow, it was in the 50s and a pleasant looking white man approached me, extended his hand, and said “Every time I cover sports in Natchez, whether it be baseball, football or basketball, I find you excelling. You are another “Tony Byrne.”

That person was Glenvall Estes. He covered me in high school and college, he could tell you every big shot that I made, every long run, it was Glenvall who raved about my brother Eddie winning the state and going to the regional and playing college basketball with me; my brother John being one of the first to play basketball in a very tense time and situation at Natchez-Adams High School.

He was so happy for “Red,” my brother, Samuel, being an All-American, leading Texas Southern to the SWAC championship and later becoming head basketball coach at Alcorn State University. When my boys started playing sports up until the baby boy Jarrod made the shot in the Sweet 16 in basketball for the University of West Virginia, it was Glenvall that called me and congratulated me. Thanks again.

He was not only a great sportscaster and writer, but he was one of the dearest and kind-hearted friends that one could have.

I never saw him down or angry, always with a small smile, a helping hand and a tremendous sport mind for talent and events.

The Miss-Lou and the world in my opinion are better places for having known, met and fellowshipped with Glenvall Estes. Glenvall, thanks for being there for me and for all of the memories, and congratulations.

Dr. George F. West Jr.

Natchez resident