“How are you doing buddy?”

For about 7 years, Walton-Verona has known the phrase: “How are you doing buddy?” The person most associated with this phrase is the reason for Thursday’s red-clothed phenomenon. Such a phenomenon was not found in the very action of wearing red, but the reason a group of people would alter their typical wardrobe routine to celebrate one person. Thursday’s example of Roger’s sweet influence on Walton-Verona High School was a reflection of his ability to give each person he passed an opportunity to smile. For every red shirt worn, was a person Roger wrapped in his unashamed joy. 

Warm embraces were a part of the signature Roger Way. When asked what she would miss about Roger, Kennedy Roberts discussed his hugs: “When Roger hugs you, he hugs you like it’s the last hug he’s ever going to get. He says that he always hugs for so long that he’s never the first person to let go.” Many Bearcats can attest to Roger’s strong hugs and how in every action Roger wants people to know that he cares. Jordan Baum, another peer tutor, was asked about the characteristic he favors most in Roger. Jordan replied, “I love that Roger is always smiling and he’s always super sweet to everybody. He’s never anything but happy.” Mrs. Meadows illustrated a similar attribute Roger brings to Walton-Verona: “My favorite thing about Roger is how kind he is to everyone. He brightens up every single room that he walks into and is the most kind person that I have ever met. Roger makes each day better.” She went into detail about how Roger has affected WVHS: “Roger knows everyone. He knows their birthday and how old they are, and he writes them a card every single year. Roger genuinely cares about each and every person that he comes in contact with and has made our school and community a better place. I wish that he could stay at Walton-Verona forever.” She finished with a special message to Roger saying, “We all love you Roger and we are so extremely proud of you! ❤️” 

In an attempt to show Walton-Verona High School’s care for Roger, many teachers and staff worked hard to set up the best possible send-off. The execution of such a day unfolded with a sentimental overload of compassion for the student that could not help but radiate kindness. From the life-size photo of Roger to the all-day party hosted in Mrs. Meadow’s room, everyone got a chance to see Roger one last time before his daily hugs and smiles were not given out by Roger himself. Although we may not see Roger’s friendly face on the way to class, we can still catch a glimpse of his precious nature when a smile is offered from across the way, the hugs given are a little tighter, and the question we should continue asking is heard: “How are you doing buddy?”

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