We all know that now is not the best of times for a great deal of us here on Earth, but we had no idea that the Good Lord himself must need some good people to help him keep things straight upstairs.

This past week he reached down to Covington and took back home two of our nicest and caring citizens.

Richard "Dick" Bellairs spent his adult life spreading goodwill and a caring and giving spirit here in Newton County.

He was a long time businessman and one of the rocks of the Covington Rotary club. He always had a smile for you and a word of good advice.

Carrie Lee Freeman was a true matriarch to all who knew her. She was an astute businesswoman and a caring soul who never said no to anyone who needed help or support.

Both of these community leaders served us in a time when community involvement was a value that was appreciated and respected.

We would be fortunate to have folks with just a fraction of their leadership qualities rise up in our community today.

Dick and Ms. Carrie will truly be missed. We have no doubts the Good Lord is making good use of their talents right now.