The Lucy Addison High School (LAHS) “Men’s Lunch Bunch” of the Washington Metropolitan Area and other Lucy Addison alumni (class indicated in parentheses) and friends honored the 92nd birthday of Coach Charlie “Bruiser” Price with a surprise celebration on August 24. The celebration was held at the lovely home of former Roanoker, Eloise Rucker Penn-Smith (60) and husband Lefty.
Warm expressions and trips back down Memory Lane were given to Coach following a delicious birthday dinner catered by Johnny Hairston (58) and the singing of happy birthday to him. Former basketball Co-Captain Harold Deane (56) delivered moving remarks on the very significant role “Coach” played in his life and presented him with a monetary gift for the years that he celebrated, along with a Kappa cap; other monetary gifts were also sent from alumni that could not be present. Football great Floyd Johnson (58) gave remarks along with his sister Mary Johnson (56). Carolyn Walker Weaver (59) and Willard ‘Boolie’ Walker (56) presented him with a copy of “The Prophet” by Kahlil Gibran. He requested that all in attendance sign his book. There were more glowing remarks and memories shared by numerous others during the celebration.
Coach, indeed, made a historical mark at the former LAHS, serving as head coach and teacher (1948-1959). Throughout his tenure he touched the lives of many athletes and students. He will never be forgotten as was exemplified by the outpouring of love at his celebration.
He received his BS degree from VA State College and later his Master of Education from American University. He had been a professional football player for the ”Los Angeles Dons” and later the “Hawaiian Warriors.” His accomplishments in the sports arena and many recognitions gave him the expertise he needed for the up and coming ‘Star City of the South’ young black men he would be teaching and coaching. After leaving Addison, he returned to Fairfax County continuing in his pursuits, where he received more achievements and honors in his professional career. He retired as Assistant Principal from West Potomac HS, Fairfax Co. VA in 1980.
Coach is a proud Kappa Alpha Psi brother and charter member for the Roanoke, Martinsville and Alexandria-Fairfax VA, chapters.
Added to the celebration was the recognition of his lovely wife, Marjorie; daughter, Claudia (Ronald) Covington. Toast master, Warren Dillon (60), along with Louise Bond-Cheatham (60) presented a beautiful bouquet of flowers to Mrs. Price who graciously thanked the group for remembering her loving husband, and expressed how much Roanoke means to the Price family.
The day was indeed a celebration and renewal of old friendships and the continuous bonding formed at Addison High that can never be broken. Many happy returns Coach!
