If you were anywhere near Old Hickory Lake on Saturday night, September 28, 2025, you probably heard the sound of laughter echoing across the water. That’s because the Beech High School Class of 1985 (and plenty of friends from all through the 1980s) gathered at the Lighthouse for their 40th reunion. Let’s just say it wasn’t your average night, it was one part comedy show, one part memory lane, and one part buffet line that nobody wanted to leave.
A Hidden Treasure on the Lake
The Lighthouse turned out to be the perfect spot for this long-awaited get-together. Tucked away in one of Hendersonville’s neatest little corners, the venue gave everyone a front-row seat to Old Hickory Lake’s beauty. The view from the water was as stunning as the smiles inside, and the décor and staff couldn’t have been better. Oh, and let’s not forget the buffet, because what’s a reunion without food that makes you forget about your diet for a night?
Friends, Stories, and a Few “Tall Tales”
From 6 p.m. until 11 p.m., the room was filled with more stories than the Hendersonville library. Of course, not all of them were 100% accurate. (After 40 years, who really remembers who won the big game or who tripped in the cafeteria?) Still, every tale brought laughs, hugs, and a few “Do you remember when…?” moments that only old friends can appreciate.
A Reunion for the Entire Decade
While the official spotlight was on the Class of ’85, the generosity stretched far beyond one graduating year. Students from across the decade joined in, all the way back to 1980 when Beech High School first opened its doors. At the time, the school was under the leadership of none other than Mr. Merroll N. Hyde, one of the most admired names in Sumner County. For many in attendance, Hyde’s guidance and discipline set the standard. Others fondly remembered the late Mary Clouse, who made history as the first female principal in Sumner County when she took over in 1986.
The Dream Team Behind the Scenes
Big events like this don’t just magically happen (although some classmates might believe elves or angels were involved). Credit goes to the hardworking reunion committee: Kim Fry Johnson, Renee Cochran Spicer, Kim Gentry Carroll, Bruce Clements, Lesia Craig Johnson, Darla White Brooks, Alan Johnston, and Gay Hardaway Sutley. These organizers somehow managed to herd classmates from all over the map, plan a night of fun, and still look good doing it.
Forty Years Later, Still Buccaneers at Heart
What really made the night special wasn’t the view, the dinner, or even the perfectly decorated hall, it was the people. Old classmates reunited like no time had passed at all. Hair may have thinned, waistlines may have thickened, and a few folks may have brought their reading glasses, but one thing hasn’t changed: the Buccaneer spirit.
As the night came to a close, hugs lasted a little longer, promises to “keep in touch” felt a little more real, and the bond that started back in the halls of Beech High School was stronger than ever.
So, for those who made it, thank you for filling the Lighthouse with laughter and love. For those who missed it, don’t worry, the stories (and the exaggerations) will surely reach you soon. And who knows? Maybe by the 50th reunion, we’ll finally get the cafeteria mystery meat recipe revealed.
In Honor Of.
No reunion is complete without remembering those who are no longer with us. For the Class of 1985, nineteen beloved classmates are deeply missed but never forgotten. Bubba Alexander, Russell Coleman, Risa Evans Woodward, Kurt Gourley, Duel Holland, Chucky Hurst, Donnie Kelley, Roland Kennedy, Dale McKinney, Lanette Mumford, Buddy Nelson, Michael Spears, Cynthia Stewart, Sherman Stoker, Michelle Terrell, Kevin Tomlinson, Valeria Williams, Jeff Woodruff, and Franky Woods may not have been able to join us at the Lighthouse, but their presence was felt in every laugh, hug, and story shared throughout the night. Each name represents a friend, a memory, and a piece of the Buccaneer spirit that continues to live on. We miss each and every one of you and honor your place in our Beech family forever.
