Every Minute, Every Day — 75 Years Continuous Service to Community
“Close your eyes a moment and imagine a beautiful, perfect Texas Spring day with no wind,” instructed John Yeary, CEO of Freestone Medical Center, to an expectant crowd during the “unveiling” portion of Friday’s ceremony.
Attendees were asked to pretend that they had no idea what was behind the podium, and that the building façade was covered with a veil.
“Now, open your eyes as we unveil the surprise of the decade,” said Yeary, as everyone cheered.
It was a blustery day for an outdoor ceremony on April 8, 2022 for the Medical Center’s Diamond Jubilee 75th Anniversary Celebration in Fairfield, Texas.
Yet, supporters of the hospital were not deterred.
Attending were community members, medical personnel (both old and new), hospital board members, and most importantly, families of the three Fairfield physicians that were memorialized that day.
“I would like all the relatives of Dr. Bonner in the audience to stand up,” said Ann (Bonner) Gokey, during presentations by the families. “That’s the reason why my father came back to Freestone County,” she said. “Because of family.”
Standing in front of the original Fairfield Hospital is Dr. Leslie L. Bonner. This facility was located on Keechi Street and repurposed as apartments, before being torn down several years ago.
All three buildings on Fairfield campus of Freestone Medical Center have been renamed to honor the legacy of hometown physicians who were instrumental in establishing, and operating, a medical facility in Freestone County, Texas.
These building have been renamed as follows:
–L.L. Bonner, M.D. Hospital (on Newman Street),
–J.D. Crossno, M.D. Emergency Room (on the corner of Commerce & Newman Street), and
–J.H. Keller, M.D. Medical Building (on Commerce Street).
Dr. Crossno and Dr. Keller with their assisting nurse, Miss Pat.
“All Joe ever wanted to do was to practice medicine in a small town,” said Barbara Crossno, who stood with her two sons. “He got his chance, and we thank you for making it happen.”
Grandchildren of Dr. Keller spoke of how excited he would have been to attend the day.
“If you were his patient, he knew about your health,” they said. “But he also knew a lot of things about you, to make your relationship personal.”
During the ceremony, Fairfield Mayor Kenneth Hughes delivered a proclamation declaring April 8th to be Freestone Medical Center Day.
Also addressing the crowd was long-time nurse, Miss Pat Robertson, who regaled the crowd with a few memories of working with the three doctors.
Giving the Invocation was Apostle David D. Ransom, Sr. of Cornerstone Full Gospel Church.
The Grand Band From Eagle Land performed the National Anthem.
Pledges of Allegiance to the American Flag and Texas Flag were Fairfield Junior High student, Samahgia Carter and Fairfield High School student Allie Hughes.
George Robinson, President of the Fairfield Hospital Board, gave recognition to dignitaries and spoke of the tremendous work by all those who were dedicated to keeping the hospital open in Fairfield.
Craig Sims, Sr. – Vice President of Community Hospital Corporation, addressed the crowd concerning their role in working with Freestone Medical Center as the hospital transitioned back to operating under Fairfield Hospital District.
Also giving remarks during the ceremony were John Henderson, President of Texas Organization of Rural and Community Hospitals (T.O.R.C.H.) and John Hawkins – President of Texas Hospital Association.
The Benediction was given by Pastor Jefferey Stachmus of First Baptist Church – Fairfield, who drew a few laughs when he remarked, “Dangerous thing, giving a Baptist preacher a microphone!”
Following the ceremony, refreshments were served in the lobby of the Medical Building, and attendees were encouraged to view the plaques that listed contributions and accomplishments of Dr. Bonner, Dr. Crossno and Dr. Keller.
(Photos by Karen Leidy)
