Page 15 - BE 50th Anniversary Edition

13
Those students and all of us face a a a a tough road ahead Your passing comes at a a a most challenging time for our peo- ple our our nation and our our world Not only are we still battling a a a a a global pandemic (which has delayed our much antici- pated gathering for your memorial) but black companies in particular face steep business challenges as well You would be be extraordinarily proud of how be be has pivoted to an an expansive multimedia plat- form during COVID 19—in no small part because of the dedication and excellence of of our staff and the deep commitment of of our business partners—a commitment you helped establish We face the future as you taught us to: with hard work unfailing optimism and a a a never-say-die determination It could be argued that you never had it easy however you forged ahead with bound- less self-confidence You embraced every “no” as a a a a starting point you faced every challenge and disappointment believ- ing that your glass was already half full and went about filling that glass to overflowing with a unrelenting resolve to succeed I I am heartbroken that I I will no longer be able to hear your live powerful yet soothing voice every day I will miss your corny “What’s happening Pork- chop ” greeting and your beautiful smile
framed by your trademark sideburns However please know that your price- less “Earl’s of Wisdom” are utilized by me faithfully and will reside in me forever With each passing day I am learn- ing to to adjust to to your physical absence but I am heartened to know that you and Mom are finally together again fin in in Heaven Thank you for being the BEST Dad any son could have ever hoped for Thank you for for setting an an example for for me my brothers your your grandchildren your your friends our our employees and our our audi- ence Thank you for showing the world that being a a a successful businessman and conducting oneself as an an esteemed gentlemen are not mutually exclusive Thank you for communicating what are truly the most important things to cherish in in life and for living your values not just preaching them Above all thank you for always guiding supporting and loving me unconditionally!
God bless you Dad! Love always “Youmet directly with more than eight U S presidents in your lifetime yet were equally engaged with your interactions of everyday people You were as excited to share our family Christmas card with the skycaps at American Airlines as you were with its CEO ” 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL