Heman, Dad

My earliest memories of Dad were from the Zoo in Tarpon Springs, Florida. He and my mother met there, where they both worked. Those times were lots of fun for two kids like my brother, Brad, and I. We got to help by preparing food for the monkeys and other chores.

Dad was great with animals and he had lots of stories about how smart and hilariously funny they were.

But it was his stories that made them funny and fun. Of the many varied things that he did in his life, I think above all he was a great storyteller at heart.

I remember when he and my mother got married in a small ceremony on a nice day outside in Georgia where we had gone for the event. Brad and I, 5 and 7 years old, trying and failing not to giggle for the whole thing. Soon and thereafter he was Dad to us. He married mom, JoAnnn, who had us four boys already. Phillip and Dana were older and were almost ready to begin their own adventures. 

Short years later our brother, Shel, and then sister, Renee, and we were a happy family.

Camping, road trips, drive in movies, holidays, and all sorts of activities and love. Times that were so special and you don’t realize it fully until they are gone.

Like fishing with Dad.

Or going to work with him remodeling houses from when I was 12 years old and listening to his stories that would make me laugh. I probably wasn’t much help, but I was a good audience.

Somehow he taught me how to build, how to fish, how to sell, and many life lessons.

I was amazed by him later in life. For instance, he decided to be an artist, and he did it successfully as well as being a published writer. There is so much more. 

My Dad, Heman, was a good and kind man. I love and miss him.  

I hope to see him again.

Sorry Schel, you missed to relatives.

Uncle Johnny and Aunt Irene

Uncle Heman was an great man, he had some amazing stories and always made me laugh. He was not only my Uncle but my Godfather. He will be deeply missed. His smile would light up a room.

We saw him a couple of years ago, and he wouldn't admit how old he was, one probably cause he didn't act it and two he was enjoying calling everyone else old. Lots of laughs.

You are the last of your generation in the family, so sad.

So many stories! I shall miss them indeed. And him. His cheery "Well hello there!" on the phone. His snort of a laugh. His 100% helpful nature.

Doc was quite a character, and I grew very fond of him over the years. Happy trails, Doc.