Celebrating 80 Years: University High Alumnus Returns to Oxford for a Heartwarming Reunion – The Oxford Eagle

University High Alumnus Celebrates 80th Reunion

At the impressive age of 98, Laurel “Quitman” Winter traveled from Edmond, Oklahoma, back to Oxford for a remarkable milestone—his 80th high school reunion at University High School.

“I’m proud of it,” Winter remarked, reflecting on his journey from a small town in Mississippi.

Winter was born in the Denmark community and graduated from University High in 1945. This school, which was established in 1930, once occupied what is now the University of Mississippi’s music building. In 1963, students were moved to the new Oxford High School, which today serves as the middle school.

Although Winter assumed none of his classmates from 1945 would attend, he still felt a strong pull to return. “I just love to reminisce about Oxford,” he shared. “It was so much fun growing up there.”

The Grand Reunion took place on October 4–5 at the Goose Creek Club, bringing together past students from various graduating classes. Morris Denton, who organizes the event, noted the number of attendees has declined over the years, with around 100 people joining this time compared to thousands in the past.

As a boy, Winter delivered newspapers for the Commercial Appeal and loved selling the Oxford Eagle on the town Square. He fondly remembered the sense of community, with kids roller skating in the streets and riding bicycles without worry. His father worked at the local electric plant, and Quitman often brought him breakfast.

After high school, Winter joined the U.S. Navy in 1945, where he spent 13 months helping returning servicemen process their discharges. Afterwards, he attended Mississippi College for a year before graduating from Georgia Tech in 1950. His career in seismic exploration spanned many years, primarily with Magnolia Petroleum and Mobil Oil, but “I’m still doing it,” he chuckled when asked about retirement.

Winter and his late wife, Mary, were married for 52 years. They grew up just streets apart, and he described her as a “real prize.”

During his reunion visit, Winter paid respects at the graves of his grandparents and enjoyed walking around the Square. He commented on the significant changes in Oxford, saying, “I’m just glad it’s keeping up with the times.”

Such reunions are important, not only for nostalgia but also for maintaining connections. A study from the University of Massachusetts found that social relationships can enhance longevity. Reconnecting with old friends can provide joy and enrich lives, especially for seniors.

As Winter’s journey exemplifies, celebrating a shared history fosters community spirit and allows older generations to provide valuable insights to the younger ones.

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