Hannah Coulter

Hannah recalls the last Thanksgiving she spent with Nathan. Caleb, Alice, and Margaret were there, and although they felt Virgie’s absence, it was a special time filled with good food and fellowship with family. Shortly after, Nathan became sick, though he said he was “wearing out,” his deterioration hinted at something worse. The doctor diagnosed him with terminal cancer, and Nathan refused treatment, preferring to die on his terms at home. For a while, Nathan continued with his work, and Danny assisted when needed, but never too much, allowing Nathan the dignity to work until he could no longer do so. Margaret visited often, as well as the Catletts and Lyda. Andy and Lyda were there with Hannah when Nathan died in the spring. Mattie was too busy to arrive until just before the funeral and left immediately afterward. The surviving members of the Port William membership gathered to mourn Nathan, “one of the old good ones” (177). After sending Caleb, Alice, and Margaret home, Hannah was alone in the house and finally gave in to her grief, crying until she felt Nathan’s presence fill the empty home.

In the present, it is nearly the year 2000, and Hannah still buys