Mary and Harlan Everman, both 81, were born and raised in Lexington. Married for 63 years, they continue to be each other’s greatest support. Harlan, a retired construction worker and a celebrated member of the Softball Hall of Fame, spent decades playing and coaching while Mary worked in retail. Their life together has been filled with joy, challenges, and an unwavering commitment to family.
This past year has been especially difficult with unexpected hardships. Despite these hurdles, the couple remains resilient, leaning on each other for strength. As Mary puts it, Harlan is “her right arm, her best friend, everything.”
As members of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, the Evermans receive USDA commodity foods from God's Pantry Food Bank. “It’s good that we have God’s Pantry to help the people that really need it,” Mary emphasizes, highlighting the significance of the Food Bank.
Amid the challenges they face, the Evermans remain grateful. Mary expresses her appreciation for her husband, her church, and their children and grandchildren. “I’m just so happy to have my family. I love them all,” she shares. Mary’s hope for others is simple yet profound: “I hope everyone can live a good life, like we have.”
One of the Evermans' cherished traditions is their family Thanksgiving. They gather at their daughter’s home, where the family comes together to celebrate.
As we reflect on the Everman's journey, their story encourages us to continue our own traditions of supporting our neighbors and reinforces our commitment to fighting food insecurity in our communities.
