That would be my DAD on the right. He died when I was a mere 11 months old when his plane crashed near Payson, AZ. I only got to know him through the stories that were told. But, those stories let him be a HERO in my mind. Flying airplanes - riding motorcycles - and he was sooo handsome! The visits that I had with him were frequent trips to the cemetery with Mom to take him bunches of oleander and wipe down his headstone. I loved being in that green, cool oasis. Listening to the birds singing in the trees and feeing the soft breeze against my little tanned body I could feel peace and happiness there. But, he wasn't there to put his arms around me, or hold me on his knee... I have to be honest and admit that I felt abandoned by him and somewhat angry. My big brother, Jim, took me to the crash site when I was much older. After hiking in from the highway Jim pointed out to me the canopy of the plane still leaning against a treeon the little hill, pointed in the direction of the tiny airport. Some of that anger began to melt. My DAD had been returning to the airport - he knew there was a problem and was going back. I sat right down in the dirt and let the tears come. As I sobbed the 47 years of pain and longing and yes, anger, all washed away. My Daddy had been trying to come home. I know now that he has been watching over me my entire life! Happy Father's Day. I love you!
Eddie Lee Jones
That would be my DAD on the left. I was almost 6 years old when my Mom married him. I really wanted a daddy, but knew there were going to be many changes for this little girl. From their courting, I could already feel the sterness. I could tell that the discipline was going to out-weigh the tenderness he may feel towards me. I was right. I had lots of moments of his harsh discipline. I was too sassy and was always punished for "talking back". But, I really only wanted to be a "daddy's little girl" and make him love me. I learned a lot about life from him. He taught me the importance of doing a job well, and smiling while doing it (I may have had the hardest time with the smiling part), being frugal (straightening used bent nails to re-use), respecting the animals that would feed us, bring money to our family on their sale, or simply be our friend. He was a hard worker, soooo Handsome, loved to sing, and was so much fun on family camping trips. I really became close to him in his later years, and learned how much I loved him as I became more involved in his care. Thanks for making me yours, Dad. Happy Father's Day!
