When I first heard the above song "Daddy's Hands" years ago, I was so touched by it because it exemplified everything I felt for my Dad. He has always been there for me and my siblings. I will always cherish the memories that was made over the years with him. The across country trips to visit relatives in North Carolina, Oklahoma, and California. The many fishing trips made out to "black fish rock" off the coast of North Carolina. Dad taught me how to type, knit, and to have a love for music. He also showed me, that inspite of how much we hurt those we love, one thing will not change. A Father's love for his child.

I thank God for allowing me to grow up in a family that consisted of my Dad and Mom, 3 sisters and 2 brothers. Our family was headed by two Christian parents. They taught me and all of us, about Loyalty, Love, Kindness and Forgiveness. Regardless of whatever we did with our lives during and after leaving home, my parents have always been there to help us.

I will miss my Dad very much. He meant more to me than anyone could ever imagine. My dad was a soft spoken man. Did not say much unless he had something to say. He was in the Navy, and retired with 20 years service plus 10 in inactive reserves. He was a Korean War Veteran.  He couldn't carry a tune, but I have heard him try. He could play several string instruments. Dad was a Ham Radio Operator for 40 years. He had an Advance licensed and he dearly loved talking to those around the world. He would run phone patches for those in the military and off overseas. He loved to travel, and we have made numerous trips across country to visit with relatives. The one thing I will always remember about my dad, is that when I was born, he gave up smoking for 18 months so that I could have 2 dresses. I still have those 2 dresses. And when I look at them, I always see my dad. He was a extremely good man. I know I was very blessed, and thankful he was mine.

My dad died from the effects of Systemic Lupus. An autoimmune disease that is very debilitating and devastating physically and emotionally to those that have it. None of us really knew how much my dad suffered with this disease. We know now, that he suffered tremendously with severe pain. More noticeable the worse it got. In the end, the Lupus left him in a vegetative state. As you can see from the pictures, my father was a strong, hard working man, dedicated to his career and to his family. He was strong, wise, and was deeply committed to his faith and belief in Jesus Christ.

I know that we all will see him again one day, free from the physical restraints that come with being made from the dust of the ground. I also know that my life is so much richer for him having been in my life for 49 years. I will cherish his memory. I will love him forever! I will miss him more than words could ever say.