Windy Hill Elementary School held a sendoff celebration Friday, marking the end of its 69-year history as it prepares to merge with Southside Estates Elementary School. Former students and teachers gathered to reminisce about cherished memories while looking toward the future.

“Jacksonville was in a very difficult period in the mid-1960s,” said Chris Hand, a government law attorney and author of the book ‘The 50th Anniversary’ update to “A Quiet Revolution” chronicling the consolidation.