Such sad news to hear of the passing of Mrs. Badeaux. She was my English teacher at CHS in 10th grade (1981-1982) and the time spent in her class resulted in some of my favorite memories of all of my school years.
Mrs. Badeaux was truly one of a kind. We hit it off from day one. She would always call on me to hold court in our class (and also her others, as well as various faculty members) and "entertain" while she graded papers.
Lord knows what I would end up saying - I would just get on a roll and go for the gusto! I recall in particular, one of those "performances" resulted in me referring to myself as a "Black Girl Trapped In A White Guys Body" which has followed me to this day - some 41 years later!!
That statement was a bit controversial for that era - I was even called into the guidance counselors office (Mrs. Mary grace Roberts) to discuss the incident which had spread rather quickly around the student body and faculty. I didn't care - I was doing what Mrs. Badeaux had asked of me - quite simply: I was entertaining the class.
I will never forget how she defended me that day. She always loved everything I said in class and I appreciated her giving me free reign just to be myself - especially at that time if you receive my meaning.
As conservative as Mrs. Badeaux was, she was also way ahead of the times on so many different levels - she knew exactly what she was doing and I am forever grateful to her for those opportunities.
She was an amazing teacher, friend and supporter.
Rest in Power Mrs. Badeaux and thank you for being an influential part of my life and the lives of so many others.
My love and prayers to her family and friends. God bless you all.
Brian Edwards