Editor, The Transcript:

The Transcript's report today of the passing of Norene Tower marks the end of a remarkable life of service, education and entertainment for countless individuals in our state.

Mrs. Tower was a consummate professional not only in her field, but in life as well. Her years of dedicated teaching touched thousands of individuals and opened for them the wonder of the word and the worlds of drama and scholarship. Her teaching at the high school and college level never failed to inspire students by her calm, disciplined and knowledgeable approach. She was as effective with a slightly raised eyebrow or the inclining of her head as others were with a shout.

For those of us who had the pleasure of working with her in crafting the presentation of theatre productions, she was a constant master class. Even if you came to her productions with extensive academic training and past experience, you always learned something new about the art. Her many contributions were recognized when she received the Governor's Arts Award for contributions to the state of Oklahoma. Her skill and ability were recognized when a production under her direction won the second place honors at the National Finals of the American Theatre Associations' biannual Community Theatre Competition with the production "Lion in Winter."

Her command of her field, her attention to detail and her firm and gentle discipline in her commitment to providing educated, polished and complete theatre for the audience charmed, entertained and benefited thousands of individuals over the years.

It is fitting, somehow, that this charming and gracious lady was born in the "Rose City" of Tyler, Texas, but it is even more fitting that she bloomed so long in Oklahoma. We are enriched by her work, blessed by her presence and lucky to have had her in our lives.

JERRY L. HARGIS

Norman