AZAHAR: Beautiful memories and tragic events

Published 4:16 pm Wednesday, November 6, 2024

On a particularly hot summer day in Carrington Woods, my best friend and I sat on her front porch taking turns cranking the handle of an ice cream churn. Her father had set up the church with ice and rock salt surrounding the stainless-steel canister which contained the carefully blended secret ingredients. We talked, laughed and wondered why it seemed to take so much time and effort. Finally, after our arms were tired and sore, he declared our work was done and the ice cream should be ready. He brought us bowls and spoons so we could scoop out and savor the most delectable, creamy and chunky peach ice cream I have ever tasted.

In October of the same year, my friend’s birthday was approaching, she would be turning 15. My mom helped me plan and throw a surprise party for her at our house. My brother helped me invite all her friends from school and church. On Wednesday, Oct. 9, 1974, I walked to her house and invited her to come over to mine. She probably thought that I had something for her, but had no clue what awaited her. Is I opened the door and she stepped inside, about 30 of her friends greeted her with shouts of ‘Happy Birthday!’ She was totally surprised! We all had a wonderful and joyous celebration that day. At the end, I walked her home and into her house. Her mom greeted us with a huge, knowing smile because she had been in on my secret.

One month later — to the day — we were all gathered again, however, this time instead of smiles and laughter, there was grief, sorrow and tears. And instead of a party, it was a funeral. On Nov. 6, 1974, my friend, Mandy, and her father, Carswell Carr, were brutally murdered in their home. There was shock, fear and anger throughout central Georgia. This year marks the 50th anniversary of this tragic event in Milledgeville, Georgia.

I share this story to spotlight two beautiful lives and the wonderful memories I have of them. Mandy was the kindest and sweetest person I have ver known. She was filled with joy, love and a special kind of innocence. Truly, everyone who knew her, loved her, and was blessed by her presence. Her father was also a kind and caring man.

Grace Anne (Gates) Azahar

Milledgeville