A fitting tribute to a great man

Guyon Saunders had the biggest heart of almost anyone I’ve ever met in the Texas Panhandle.

It was that heart that earned a tribute this week at what used to be called the Tyler Street Resource Center. It’s now known as the Guyon Saunders Resource Center.

Guyon died just after Christmas 2006. But his legacy lives on at the center that now bears his name. He gave generously of his treasure and his time — as well as his commitment.

I met Guyon nearly 15 years ago. I knew him through Rotary; we served as members of the Rotary Club of Amarillo. He always was encouraging to those who were new to the service organization. He extended that warmth to me on many occasions.

As it was stated during the rededication of the Guyon Saunders Resource Center, he didn’t know a stranger. And his friendship remained steadfast, even when he disagreed strenuously. I know that from personal experience.

We once published an editorial at the Globe-News that took a former public official to task over a business matter that involved the use of public funds. Guyon Saunders didn’t like what the editorial stated; the public official in question was a friend of Guyon, who considered the individual something of a protege. He came over to visit about the editorial. He pounded the table and while expressing himself, Guyon used language I didn’t think he was capable of using.

When Guyon was done, he stood up, threw his arm around my shoulder and declared that he still loved me as a friend.

I’m proud to have called him a friend as well.