Father’s Day is a time to reflect on the incredible impact our fathers have had on our lives. For me, this day is especially poignant as I remember my father, a man of immense character, kindness, and faith.
My father, stood tall at six feet, embodying a superhero’s grace and strength. When he was in school, the first sentence he wrote on the blackboard in the first grade was in Latin, and went on to graduate top of his class at age sixteen. He worked on his parents’ dairy farm, and after graduation became a conductor for Southern Railway, later known as Norfolk Southern, just as his father, who was an engineer, did before him. His life was a blend of hard work, dedication, and love for his family, and as one of his three children, I am proud to carry his name.
One of my most cherished memories with my father happened when I was in 7th grade. I came home from school in tears after a humiliating day where I was left out during a gift exchange. My father found me sobbing in my room and, with his gentle presence, he sat beside me and listened. He shared a similar story from his own childhood, making me feel understood and less alone. This moment was just one of many where he showed me what true empathy and compassion looked like.
My father’s faith was a guiding light in his life and mine. He accepted Jesus as his savior at the age of twelve and was baptized. His actions were a testament to his beliefs. He was always kind, disciplined with love, and was a faithful husband to my mother. His advice was always wise and delivered with love, teaching me lessons that shaped who I am today. One piece of advice that stands out was when he counseled me to wait before marrying my fiancé who was in the US Navy and heading to Vietnam for a year of duty at sea. Instead of forbidding me to marry, he wisely said, “If he truly loves you and you love him, wait until he returns, and if you still feel the same after a year apart, you will know your love will last.” His wisdom taught me patience and faith. I listened, and my husband and I will celebrate our 54th anniversary this year, good Lord willing!
When I think about my father, I see God reflected in his actions and character. He wasn’t in church often due to his work, but he kept his word, treated everyone with respect, and never backed down from doing the right thing. He had a way of making everyone feel valued and heard, and his crew on the railroad loved him for his principles and fairness.
My father’s sense of humor and affectionate nature were also hallmarks of his personality. He had a favorite saying whenever he left for work: “No if, nor buts, I’ve got to leave you nuts.” This phrase always brought a smile to our faces and reminded us of his playful spirit. He loved to tease my mother, often sneaking up behind her to give her a kiss on the neck or a playful pinch. Her protests of “George, not in front of the children!” were always met with laughter, bringing joy to our home.
A particular Bible verse that reminds me of my father is:
“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2)
My father used to say he didn’t need a mansion and would settle for a shack if he could be near Jesus. This humble attitude was so characteristic of him, but I know that in heaven, he has a mansion because there are no shacks in heaven.
One of my favorite memories is how calm and collected he was in a crisis. Once, when my mother was away, a grease fire erupted in the oven while he was talking to her on the phone. Without missing a beat, he calmly put out the fire, never letting on that anything was wrong. His cool demeanor in emergencies was just another aspect of his incredible character.
My father’s presence in my life was a source of strength and guidance. Even when he was diagnosed with cancer, he continued to work on the trains and play golf until he physically couldn’t anymore. He loved his life and never let his illness dampen his spirit, often laughing and joking with us despite his pain. He passed away far too soon, at the age of 55. I was just 21 years old, and my first child was one year old. I am grateful that he got to meet and love some of his grandchildren. He was a proud Papaw and loved spending holidays and vacations with family. His legacy of love and commitment remains a cornerstone of my life.
Serving in the Army in World War II, Dad was part of the greatest generation. Despite being married with children, he enlisted in December 1944, and was promoted to Sergeant and awarded the Bronze Star within a year. Although he rarely spoke about his experiences, his service was a testament to his bravery and dedication. I suspect he was near an explosion during the war, as he often mentioned that the hair on his legs never grew back due to something that happened in the war. Despite my efforts to obtain more information, it seems many records from that time were destroyed in a fire.
As Father’s Day approaches, I remember my father not just as a parent but as a man of faith, strength, and unwavering love. His lessons and love continue to guide me every day. While he may no longer be with us, his spirit and the values he instilled in me live on. This Father’s Day, I honor his memory and the incredible man he was.
Happy Father’s Day, Daddy. Your legacy lives on in all of us.
