I would like to echo the expressions of the Raleigh News & Observer printed in The Pilot Oct. 14, and The Pilot’s editorial (“William Friday’s Noble Example,” Oct. 14) regarding the passing of William C. (Bill) Friday.

North Carolina has definitely lost a great leader of public education in North Carolina.

His dedication to education as president of the University of North Carolina for 30 years, followed by his continued devotion and volunteer leadership for our state and nation’s educational programs will live on forever.

It was my privilege to often have direct contact with Dr. Friday when I worked for 21 years at what was known as the Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina, and a graduate of that branch of the University system (now UNC Greensboro). When he visited our “WC” campus, I was occasionally called on to substitute for the chancellor’s secretary to take notes at a meeting.

Yes, I was “shaking in my boots” whenever that time came, but he made everyone feel at ease, whether it was a student, staff, faculty or anyone else in his presence.

I have always felt extremely fortunate to have occasionally been in the presence of Dr. Friday and to have worked in the university system when he was leading it through some very tough times.

I have shed some tears upon hearing of his passing, but his legacy will always live on and remain with us forever.

I shall always be grateful for the limited time I was in the presence of this man, with his gentle but firm convictions of what is best for the state’s education system and its students.

Mary Jane V. Knight

Southern Pines