A Tribute to our Fathers

Born in 1966 and 1967, John Bel and I grew up in the 70s and 80s. Our fathers were involved in community, church, and family. We realized it then, but we appreciate much more now the love commitment of our fathers to our siblings and us. I was the baby with two older brothers, and John Bel, number seven of eight. His sister was the oldest and the only girl, and his house, like mine, was full of energy and laughter. I was fortunate to know John Bel’s father when I was just 14 years old when we began dating. And he developed a relationship with my dad at the same time. Living in the small town of Amite allowed each of us to know the other’s families and fathers well. We were each blessed to be shaped and molded by two sterling patriarchs.

Our fathers disciplined, taught, motivated, and loved us. They were both storytellers and loved to laugh. But, next to God, family always came first.

Always generous with his time and attention, the special memories that I have of him and our times together are more plentiful. For example, on Saturday mornings, Daddy would often take me to the Five and Dime, where I could buy a specific number of items. I would spend at least an hour trying to find just the right things, and he was patient. The family — all of us — would often take trips, visit state parks, go fishing and walk in the woods. Sunday afternoon after the church was Daddy’s favorite time for family events.