
My dad joined the U.S. Army in the 1960s, with duty stations in Germany, Korea, and later as a respected Drill Sergeant at Fort Knox, Ky. After medically retiring in the late ’70s, he became a strong community advocate in Radcliff — supporting families in the school system, welcoming foreign soldiers into our home, and helping bring Juneteenth and Kwanzaa celebrations to our area. With his commanding voice, generous spirit, and deep love for his eight children and eighteen grandchildren, he has always been the steady patriarch of our family.

Whether we were riding in his handicapped accessible van (thank you Dana Canedy for this generous gift) headed to a VA appointment, or grabbing a bite to eat, I always cherished our time together. It wasn’t about where we were going — it was the comfort of being side‑by‑side, sharing moments that meant everything.

Dad is all about family — every bit of it. He poured his heart into each one of us. He showed up with pride, love, and that unmistakable presence that made everyone feel loved. Whether he was sharing stories, offering wisdom, or just enjoying the noise and joy of a full house, his greatest happiness came from being surrounded by the family he built and cherished.