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Nearly four decades after their high school graduation, the Demopolis High School Class of 1984 reunited for a weekend filled with joy, nostalgia and heartfelt memories.

The 40th reunion, a three-day event, began on Friday, Nov. 1, with a social gathering at the Demopolis Civic Center and concluded with a Sunday church service at Saint Paul Baptist Church.

Approximately 30 members of the graduating class of 128 attended the event, which began on Friday night with a meet-and-greet. Classmates gathered to reminisce over high school yearbooks, sharing laughs, memories, and a meal. Class President Tommie Reese expressed his gratitude, calling the chance to reunite “a blessing to once again see all of our fellow classmates.”

The highlight of the weekend was the Saturday evening banquet, where classmates reflected on shared memories and honored 16 members who have passed since graduation: Maurine Abrams, Mary Brown, Jeanne Boykins, Addie Connor, Todd Cunningham, Greg Howard, Patricia Jones Paige, Leon Mack, Jerry Mitchell, Anita Walls Rembert, Glenda Robinson, Debbie Rhone, Josie Scott, Ida Sharpe, Pearlie Sharpe and Billy Ward. A moment of remembrance brought together all attendees in a tribute to the friends they had lost.

In attendance were three former teachers — Mrs. Virginia Goodlett, Ms. Frankie Wilson and Mr. Booker Barlow — who were greeted with enthusiastic applause. Reese shared that while the class had attempted to contact more of their former teachers, many had relocated or passed away, making their presence especially meaningful.

During the banquet, Reese addressed classmates with a message of gratitude for teachers, school staff, and the community that had shaped their lives. “You poured your time, energy, and care into shaping our lives, guiding us not just academically but personally as well,” Reese shared. “Because of you, we left those hallways with more than just an education—we left with values and a sense of purpose.”

The reunion closed on Sunday morning with classmates attending a church service at Saint Paul Baptist Church of Demopolis. Coming together in worship added a meaningful layer to the weekend, reminding all in attendance of the bonds and blessings they have shared through the years.

The 40th reunion was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Class of 1984 and the friendships that have lasted a lifetime. Reese concluded by encouraging classmates to “carry this energy forward and continue to make positive impacts in our own lives and communities,” affirming that “the spirit of the Class of 1984 lives on in each of us.”