Sasee Magazine

Connie Barnard is a very special person to everyone at Sasee. She has been writing for us since our beginning and has become a much-loved part of the Sasee family. An Air Force wife for 28 years, Connie has moved 16 times and loved it! Today, she and her husband, Howard, are retired and live in Surfside Beach. The core of their lives is their two grown children and five grandchildren who they visit frequently.

Connie was nominated by Cherie Compton, Parish Health Coordinator for First Presbyterian Church in Myrtle Beach. Cherie and Connie have known each other for twelve years, and Cherie feels strongly about the special nature of her friend.

Connie’s joy shines through always, no one is “cellophane” or invisible to her. A true caregiver, Connie does so much for others. When my husband was seriously ill, she brought food to us; she cares for a disabled friend in Conway, and there are many others that have been the recipient of Connie’s (always anonymous) generosity. Best of all, you never see Connie without a smile on her face. I think one of the most important things to know about Connie is that she is balanced. God is first and foremost in her life, but she does have a life outside of the church.

Connie, we all know you write for Sasee, but tell us a little about your life.

I do volunteer both at church and in the community. My husband, Howard, was a pilot in the Air Force, and one of the men under his command was seriously injured ejecting from a plane. He’s in a nursing home locally, and we take care of him – he doesn’t have a wife or children and his siblings live in other parts of the country.

I’ve always loved to write – I’m a retired English teacher and taught mostly college composition. My most unusual job was teaching at the Fort Leavenworth Prison, and my favorite teaching experience was at the high school level. I try to keep up with my former students – I fell in love with all of them!

I really don’t feel like I’m special. I just jump in and help wherever I’m needed. My friends are important to me, and I like being there for them when they need me, and when we want to have fun!

Speaking of fun, what do you do to relax?

Howard and I love to travel. We just got back from Chicago and had a great time. I had never been and loved it. We’ve been to Scotland and Ireland quite a few times, but I’d like to go back to England to see a few more places. Our big dream is to go to Australia and New Zealand.

Gardening is another passion of mine, and I am a Master Gardener. Living on the beach makes this a real challenge; there are a lot of plants that don’t like our salt air! We live near the ocean, and I love walking on the beach. And, of course, I love my book clubs. Currently I’m a member of three. Local history fascinates me. I love meeting people and hearing their stories. Truth is important to me…and people who are real.