I’m sitting in my living room, reading the headlines in our Salisbury Post (May 14) that “Albert Aymer leaves Salisbury better than he found it,” and we thank God that we (Janis and I) have had the blessing of Albert Aymer in our lives.

Like almost everyone in Salisbury who knows, respects and loves Dr. Aymer the way we do, we definitely have mixed feelings. We know that Salisbury’s loss will be the “gain” for his family and the many new friends he will meet on his journey.

He should always know how much he also meant to our parents, Wilson and Evelyeen Smith and Jean and Jimmy Hudson. I remember mother-in-law Jean saying “I could listen to Albert preach all day long at the Methodist Church and love every minute of it.”

What a compliment.

I have always been so impressed with the level of Christian enthusiasm Dr. Aymer demonstrated in his work, especially at Hood Seminary. Salisbury is most definitely a much better place today because of Albert Aymer. And, more importantly, I know I am a much better person today for having the influence of Albert Aymer in my life. I thank him.

We are sorry we were not at the reception for Dr. Aymer to wish him well, but maybe that has given us this opportunity to say some things that come from the heart. We love Dr. Aymer and will always be so thankful for his example in our world, which needs more Albert Aymers.

We send our very best wishes on the next chapter in his life in Texas. He will be in our thoughts and prayers. God speed, good and faithful servant.

— Ronnie Smith

Salisbury