In 1981 I was traveling to the east coast from California for no business purpose. I didn’t need a sportscoat or suit for any meetings, so I did not take any. On the way home I received a call about the wife, Anne Lee, of a dear friend, Joe, who had just died. The funeral was the next day in Pampa, Texas.
I felt it was important for me to be there. I changed flights and was on my way to Texas. However, I really needed a coat and tie for the funeral. Since I had lived in Pampa for several years, I was staying at a friend’s house. My timing was poor as there were no men’s stores open when I got to town and the funeral had already started.
I stopped by my second friend’s home and borrowed a sportscoat and tie. The only issue was that he was much, much, taller than I was. I looked very silly. I was able to make it to the cemetery only and walked up before the graveside service began.
After the internment Joe took me for a ride in the flat country of Gray County. He drove us around for about two hours while he just talked and talked. I guess I was supposed to be there as he spent so much time with me. But one thing I will never forget again.
Travel with a sportscoat and tie. Any way it is nice to have the extra pocket and another layer for a little warmth.
