For over 30 years those who entered the doors at Laurel Family Clinic were greeted each day with a gentle smile and a warm embrace by Mr. Levi B. Seals, an 80-year-old South Central Regional Medical Center full-time volunteer at the local clinic. Mr. Seals spent the majority of his later years of service in the workforce at Laurel Family Clinic and has recently retired to spend more time with his wife, children and grandchildren.

“I came to Laurel Family Clinic many years ago because of my wife, Ann. Throughout my time at the clinic I have assisted in many roles. I greeted patients as they arrived at the clinic, transported patients in wheelchairs, swept the floors and did whatever I could to help the staff.” said Mr. Seals.

Seals is a Jones county native that has raised a family, served overseas in Seoul, South Korea for the Army, worked multiple jobs to support his loved ones and continued to devote his time to others.

Jack C. Evans, M.D., Family Medicine Physician at Laurel Family Clinic spoke about the respect he has for Seals. “When I arrived at Laurel Family Clinic almost 30 years ago, Levi was one of the first persons I met. His quite manner, gentle smile and kind eyes let the world know of the compassionate spirit and love for others that defines him. Over the years not only have I come to admire who he is, but respect the character, love and integrity he possesses” said Dr. Evans.

Mr. Seals and his wife worked diligently throughout difficult times to raise their three boys, Calvin, Michael and the late Darryl Seals, with those same personal characteristics. Their sons went on to attend college and learn from their father’s footsteps. Calvin Seals graduated from Millsaps College with a degree in Computer Engineering. Michael Seals, M.D., practices as a Neurological Surgeon in Texas. His youngest son, Darryl Seals, attended the University of Southern Mississippi and worked as a supervisor with the state of Texas prior to his death.

“When I was raising my sons, I tried to live before them. They never caused me any trouble and always made me proud to be their father. I always told others that to help raise my children I never sent them to church, but I carried them to church to learn about how to live a Godly life.” said Mr. Seals.

While serving at the clinic, Mr. Seals was nominated for a Service Excellence Award for his dedication and service in his role and his love for others. During his retirement reception, physicians, nurses and staff took time to thank him for the role he unassumingly played in their lives.

“God put us here to save others, share His word and show the good,” stated Seals. “I hope that through my years at Laurel Family Clinic each person I have met will remember these words.”

The respect and admiration of Mr. Levi Seals goes beyond being just another team member at Laurel Family Clinic. Seals has spent many years proving this to others in his kind actions and warm words.

“Levi is a special person that each of us looks upon in a heartfelt way, and I hope and pray to be like him one day,” stated Dr. Evans. “To me, he is what family medicine is all about.”

Author:Becky Collins

Category:News