My Brother Jack

Soon after Jack was killed, I formed this notion that somehow, to show my devotion to Jack's memory, I would think about him at least once every day of my life. I was shocked a few years later when I realized that it had been days or perhaps weeks since I had given him any thought. I had become too involved in my own life to spend time on obsessions. Since my retirement, I rediscovered the obsession. As a child, I was the fortunate recipient of a lot of positive regard, much of it undeserved. I actually thought that I was supposed to excel at the things I did. Mixed with this was no small amount of entitlement. However, as soon as I started college in a larger pond, these notions were knocked out of me. I kept plugging along, going to college, spending two obligatory years in the army, and working. I had little natural inclination toward warrioring. I received four degrees: the A.A. from Weatherford College, B.S. and M.S. from North Texas State University, and a Ph.D. in school administration from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M, Commerce). I married Shirlene Leach, a great, bright and beautiful little blonde who thought she could do anything I could do. She did, except her last degree is designated ED.D. in Special Education. I taught, was a principal, and spent 27 years as a school superintendent. Shirlene has taught for 36 years, getting a late start after serving as my blonde scholarship, working in a bank as a bookkeeper, teller and secretary to the president. We have three sons, Matt, Scott and Joe. Scott, who also served in the army for four years, has a M.S. degree in school administration and is a school principal. Joe has a B.A. in English and is a graduate of the National Shakespeare Conservatory of New York City. He worked in management at Arena Stage Theatre in Washington, D.C. He is married to Andrea Maida, an actress/Pilates instructor and in general a highly talented, delightful lady. Scott and his beautiful wife Denice, a master teacher, have given us three beautiful and bright granddaughters, Becca, Bethanne, and Hannah. Shirlene spoils them. I just love them. Matt is a heck of a golfer and a great lawn care specialist. He is also one of the bravest men I have ever known, having battled schizophrenia-induced demons for more than a quarter century.