Ents did right thing at right time

To the editor:

Amy Ent of Cairo, Ill., died recently at the age of 94. She was bright, possessed a curious mind and was fun. She and her husband, Dr. Lewis Ent, were leaders in the Cairo community for many decades. She loved music and musicians. Doc was an outstanding jazz baritone sax player.

My first recollection of the Ents was when Bill Ewing took my younger brother, Don, at age 13 to the Cairo Elks Club to play a dance with seasoned musicians. When he returned, all he talked about was Doc Ent, Doc Ent, Doc Ent. Many years later, after Doc's death, Amy remained engaged, pleasant and fun-loving, always a smile on her face.

The most endearing quality of the Ents was their humanity. In the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s, black musicians traveling and performing in our area didn't have places to stay at night. The great orchestras of Count Basie, Duke Ellington and lesser known groups weren't allowed in area hotels. The Ents always came to the rescue, securing them meals and lodging in the homes of local families.

Cairo, like the rest of our country, has struggled with race relations. We've come a long way from the days of my segregated childhood with African Americans weren't permitted in public facilities to eat, sleep or even use a bathroom. And while we still have a way to go, the Ents are examples of individuals who did the right thing in times when it was not fashionable.

JERRY FORD, Cape Girardeau