Hey Dill, just found out of your passing. I'm sorry we never reconnected; I last saw you with Priscilla at my house in Olney over 30 years ago. I always remember growing up and playing baseball and basketball together. Every day at Belfield playing baseball with my brother John (Block) Ernest, Horace, and the rest of the gang. Glad to see you still were a Phillies fan, they always sucked when we were kids. We lost track after you went into the Air Force. I want to pass on my condolences to Priscilla & Jerry. Hope you like the picture, Rest In Peace Brother, Chalie

Cinco de Mayo

Happy Birthday Dad!

What's up Dad! Just checking in again! I'm headed to Philly again to get your stuff squared away! I miss you! I hope you are having a ball up there on the other side! The Eagles play tomorrow; even though they are scrubs, hopefully they can pull an upset!
Even though we went a long time without talking, I feel like we are still solid. I feel like I should have reached out no matter what the situation was. I know you and I know why you wanted to be left alone. Just know, you are my dad, no matter the circumstance. It's unconditional love!
Even though you are flying above us, your earthly remains are at Jerry's house! He also loves you unconditionally!
I feel like I have so much to tell you that I never got the opportunity to share with you. I don't drink anymore. It's been almost 3 years. I havent really smoked in that time either. When I cleaned out your place, I noticed you seemed to have stopped or slowed down yourself.
Once more, I miss you and I love you! Your only son, Julius.

Flying to Philly Tomorrow

I remember going to Rittenhouse Square constantly, sometimes after leaving your job. We would hang out and talk while waiting on time to leave to catch the subway. We would head south, to the Pattison Station. The excitement would build upon entering the subway with all the other Phillies fans en route to the same destination. After exiting the train and walking up the platform steps we would hear the sounds and see the familiar sites of baseball. Vendors selling soft Quaker pretzels and scalpers selling tickets. Occasionally, the trombone guy would be playing.
I remember these times we shared vividly and I will cherish them dearly!
It seems like forever ago.

I love you Dad!

Spring Time

I remember coming to Philly for your 50th birthday. This also happened to be the inaugural year of Citizens Bank Park opening for the Phils. Sitting behind first base, way up, was your go to. The sound of Philly baseball entering the airwaves from your radio alerting us to the inside information regarding the home team.
Times like this allowed me to learn the game of baseball. I will forever be grateful for these moments. In fact, I myself exposed my son to the game in the same way. A son grows idolizing his father. Since birth you have molded and engrained certain things in me. Despite our distance, the traits and attributes have been stamped and embedded in my psyche. Eagles, Phils, Sixers, History, Politics. Those areas represent 90% of my life. It's no accident that I teach History courses as a high school educator. The seeds that you planted have harvested and others are reaping benefits.

I want you to know that I love you and I will miss you! All positive energy! Rest in glory and watch over me please. Enjoy your company as you reunite with your pop, mother, and sister. Until we see each other again, I will be talking to you periodically....So get ready!

I love you dad!
Your only son, Hilton Dewitt IV