Earlene J. Hope

Although we lost touch over the years, Earlene and I were close childhood friends and often played yard games in the field next door. Since the games were kept in an old barn behind Earlene's house, retrieving them was more fun than playing them. The barn was very dark and kind of scary. I can still see the dust fly as we walked across the old floor boards. Best of all though was that sometimes Earlene let me look into her Grandpops old car.

I was younger and smaller and almost always lost the games we played. This made me the perfect playmate though because Earlene was pretty competitive. In fact, on the rare occasion when it looked like I might win, with hands on her hips, Earlene would say "I think its time for you to go home now Jimmy." Then, it was a little embarrassing. Today, its endearing.

When I was 17, Earlene and her friend Ray Lauder agreed to double date with me and my girlfriend (now wife) Betty. At 17 and with just a learners permit, I was not legally able to drive after dark without a licensed driver in the car. Earlene eagerly agreed to play that role. She pointed out each stop sign, closely monitored my speed, and emphasized all potential road hazards. Almost home, I checked the rear view mirror one last time and saw Earlene looking at Ray with an impish grin. Then I knew this drive was our final childhood yard game... and once again, she had WON.

A few years ago, Earlene and I had lunch together and the nearby German restaurant. We chatted at length about the past, we caught up on our family's lives, we re-connected. I'm so glad we had that day together.

So very sad to read about the passing of a former Riverside High School class of 1956. May you rest in peace and comfort and our good Lord will give you peace and rest.
Bob Willard
Hampstead, North Carolina

I have known Earlene and the Hope family since 1977. She was always such a special person. I will always remember how much she loved the shore and the booster club.

I will also remember how much she loved her grandchildren ,great- grandchildren and what a wonderful mother-law she was to my sister, Linda.

I will miss you very much. We have many wonderful times together and I have so many wonderful memories of you that I will hold dear to my heart.

Thoughts and prayers to all the family members,

Sha´ Larsen Toon

I have known Earlene for over 40 years and will always remember as a beautiful and sweet woman! My heart felt condolences to the family!

I have known Earlene only a short time since married to Matthew Hope, but she was a beautiful woman inside and out and such a special person. I am honored to have met her and spend the time I did with her.