For some, life lasts a short while, but the memories it holds last forever.

This was the theme for the McKenzie School Class of 2004 and it seemed to be a fitting one.

The class of 2004 gathered one final time on Thursday to say their good-byes at their graduation ceremony.

Because most of the students went to school together for so long it was a very emotional ceremony.

The graduation was a rollercoaster of emotions bringing tears and laughter from the graduates.

During her Valedictory Address Lindsey Odom teared up as she addressed her classmates.

Odom told her fellow graduates that she would always remember them.

&uot;We have been through a lot together,&uot; said Odom. &uot;I will never forget you.&uot;

Salutatorian Heather Ellis also shed a tearful goodbye to the Class of 2004.

&uot;We have laughed together and cried together,&uot; said Ellis. &uot;I know that I will miss you all very much.&uot;

Honored guests for the ceremony were Dr. Mike Reed, Superintendent, Joanne Peek, President of the Board of Education and board members Linda Hamilton, Billy Jones, Frank Thigpen and Terry Williams.

At the ceremony Principal Randy Williams also honored other honor graduates.

James Ball, Cal Cook, Erica Knight, Allison Reid and Sandy Smith were all recognized for their academic achievement. There was also a special surprise during the ceremony.

It was announced that Mallory Merrit had received a scholarship to attend Lurleen B. Wallace Community College.

The class chose the silver rose as their class flower and medium blue, purple, black and silver as their class colors.

The Georgiana High School Class of 2004 took their rite of passage walk on Friday night at Panther Stadium.

This morning, the Greenville High School graduating class and their classmates will hold commencement at 10 a.m. at Tiger Stadium.

The Fort Dale Academy Senior Class will graduate on Friday, May 28.