I was brought up in Four Oaks, NC and dreamed of being a pilot.   This was inspired by my dad and family members who served in the US Military.  I lived around airports/military bases all my adult life.  In the 80's, my husband Jim gave me the opportunity to learn to fly under the instruction of Jerry Carter and Lyn Cole, both retired military pilots.  My favorite plane was our Cherokee 180 N8309W, better known as "Jaws", in which we flew safely for many years up and down the eastern seaboard.

I also served in the NC Civil Air Patrol / Johnston County Squadron.  I worked with the cadet's ensuring adventuresome trips such as rides on the KC-10 refueling tanker out of Seymour Johnson AFB under the direction of Lt. Col. James Clarke (not related to my husband).  Many new friends came about in my life during flying and interacting in aviation.  I managed to see a shuttle launch while in Coco Beach, FL and still continue to meet people who share my love for flying.  Flying is something you yearn for and once you lift off on that first solo and land safely, you are addicted.  To this day, I thank God for keeping me safe and allowing my dream to come true and so thankful to those who supported me every step of the way.  I am so honored to be placed on the Wall of Aviation, NASM, Washington, DC.