Simple his habit, plain his wonted ration,
Humble the roof that sheltered him at night.
He sought no preferment of rank or station,
Save but to be a bearer of the light.
He dreamed out futures for the boys before him,
And led them ever onward toward the goal.
The heights they won the choicest gladness bore him
Whose faces were enshrined within his soul.
In many a countryside and distant city
Were lived strong lives to which the light he gave.
Strong hearts beat and strong hands were reached in pity
He taught to bless, to brighten, and to save.
Upon a quiet hillside he is sleeping,
Content to rest, the final school day o’er,
But everywhere his boys the faith are keeping.
They hold his torch aloft forevermore.