Published: January 29, 2009 07:50 pm      

Boatner, Ferguson

Linda Watson Ferguson and Coach Jerry Wayne Boatner were married on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009, at 1 p.m. at the Union State in Meridian. The Rev. Hal Bates of First Baptist Church of Collinsville conducted the ceremony.

Jerry and Linda reconnected at the 5th Meridian High School Class Reunion on Oct. 9 and 20, 2008, and it was almost "love at first sight." The couple were middle school sweethearts. Their fondness of each other began in the eighth grade with a smile, a wink and finally a short love note. Through those middle school years, their shyness never allowed for a date, a kiss or even a prom. But there was something special about their relationship.

Forty-five years later, God allowed that "something special" to blossom into an everlasting love in marriage.

The bride is the daughter of Lou Watson of the Pine Hill Community in Enterprise and the late Pat Watson Sr.

The bridegroom is the son of Lillian Boatner of Union and the late James Boatner.

Music for the ceremony was provided by Ken Butts and Tony Grice; Amanda Cooksey, music arrangement; and Twyla Hurst, vocalist.

The bride wore a short, taupe, V-neckline dress of chiffon and polyester, accented by an overlay of matching scalloped layers. She carried a bouquet of alsromeria, yellow konfetti roses mixed with Magnolia leaves and tree ferns.

The couple's daughters, Stephanie Cadena of Dacula, Ga., Natalie Bishop of Athens, Ga., Boo Runnells of Pearl and Sha Jackson of Brandon stood beside their parents as they united in marriage. Their sons-in-law, David Cadena, Matt Bishop, James Runnells and Jeremy Jackson assisted as greeters, photo shooters and videographers, along with entertaining the couple's nine grandchildren and providing a little extra tender love and care to the two younger expectant daughters.

Catering was provided by Joe Sherman; flowers by Connie Joyner; and photography by Scott Jay.

The Boatners would like to express thanks to all "for making this a very 'special day' in our lives."

The couple will reside in Collinsville, where Coach Boatner will begin his 36th baseball season at West Lauderdale High School on Feb. 7. Mrs. Boatner is looking forward to being taken out to the ballgame and reminiscing her proposal on the pitcher's mound Christmas night.