Later Tuesday, about a half-mile from the cemetery, the public had itschance to bid a fond farewell to the man who got his start in NorthCarolina and never let go of his roots here.
The service was held in Memorial Hall on the campus of theUniversity of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. In attendance were many of Kuralt's former colleagues, UNC representatives from his alma mater, oldfriends, family members, and strangers who felt a kinship with the man whocame across as one of them in spite of his fame.
Among those paying tribute to Kuralt were PBS talk show hostCharlie Rose and Gov. Jim Hunt. Former CBS News anchor Walter Kronkite hadplanned to attend the service, but fog kept his flight from leavingMartha's Vineyard, Mass., on Tuesday morning.
The service began with the pealing of the bell at the South Building,UNC's administration building. That happens rarely, and only on veryspecial occasions.
For those who knew him, and those who only admired him from afar, thiswas a very special occasion.
Friends and colleagues talked to WRAL-TV5'sBob Langford after the serviceabout their memories of Kuralt.
Those wishing to make donations in memory of Kuralt can honor hisfamily's wishes by sending checks to the attention of Dean Edwards at UNC, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514. The money will go to the UNC School ofSocial Work. For more information on the Charles Kuraltmemorial fund call 1-800-644-8094.
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
