Page 165 - From the Outhouse 4 -21

165 | P A T R I C I A R A E M E R R I T T W H A T L E Y

I am a witness to his hard work to make a dollar. He was always thinking, creating, developing, networking, reading, and studying different
ways to provide for his family. He kept building his business until it grew to be a financial mainstay in the Liberty City area for over 40

years. As his family increased, he was and remained compassionate about his children. It is his desire that each of them be successful.

Although we could not reside together as husband and wife, he always took very good care of our son, Kamili. I thank him for that! I still

remember several instances when his wise intervention made all the difference in the world.

A magnificent father does that for his children, and John Edmon Hitchmon achieved that. Because of the example John set, Kamili has

learned from his father to be that magnificent, compassionate father to his children, as well. His oldest son, John Jr., exhibits the same type

of parenthood.

John Sr. has been an outstanding role model for his sons, and I commend John Jr. for encouraging Kamili to walk independently. Desiree
and Janai (Kamili’s sisters) and his brother have a terrific relationship.

Overall, I credit John, Sr. for introducing me to the concept of entrepreneurship. I didn’t have a business thought in my mind until I met
John. He inspired my Tajiri Arts School of Performing Arts and Museum vision. I learned from John how to take a little and build a lot.

The Ibada Bogolan Handbag Collection that I design and create is another entrepreneurial thought that has its roots in my marriage to
John. Because of him, I can testify how a home business can grow into a monumental business!

With God All Things are Possible! Thank you, Jesus…and thank you, John E. Hitchmon.