Page 71 - Senior Link Magazine Winter 2018- Online Magazine

Over time, Loyd became an perimeter, hanging pots sway in the But he’s fought many life battles with
accomplished contractor - erecting breeze and patio furniture invites his and Bette’s health issues. Love
churches, banks, the YMCA, the jail, them to sit a while. compels him to be caretaker for Bette
schools, multiple remodels. He built Tears filled Loyd’s eyes, and he as they face the thief of memory,
the beautiful, spacious home where continued, “You know, I love to get a Alzheimer’s disease, together. When
they have shared life together. Loyd hot cup of coffee and sit out there in he’s able to play golf, at the age of 92,
took the dreams of people and made the morning and spend time with my he will often have Bette riding in the
them a reality. Savior. He’s been awful good to us.” golf cart with him. She’s delighted,
cheering Loyd on, and their nearly
Loyd added, “You know, next to His face shined when he talks about seven decades of marriage still seems
playing duplicate bridge, Bette their three children - Debbi, David, like a honeymoon for a time.
loves being outdoors, so we added and Dana. He celebrates the obstacles
a sunroom.” Enclosed by a brick they have overcome. There is deep For so long, Loyd Belk has made
fence, a plethora of flowers hug the pride and excitement as he talks about dreams come true for many whom
the lives they have he touched. He has given so much to
forged for themselves. so many so often. He gave when he
didn’t even know he was giving. For
Our conversation him, it was as natural as breathing.
lapsed, and Loyd And even though Loyd doesn’t always
looked earnestly at recognize his life as extraordinary, for
me. “Jody, why would the rest of us, his “love in action” is in
you pick me for an Plain View.
interview? I’ve never
done anything special.
Even in the military,
I never fought in a
battle.”

Lubbock Senior Link 71