Father’s Day can feel different from Mother’s Day. For many people, it brings a mix of gratitude, loss, celebration, and difficult memories. Yet I never want the devoted fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, and positive male mentors to be overlooked because of the actions of men who were absent. The truth is that many men quietly show up, sacrifice, guide, protect, and love their families every day. They deserve to be honored and appreciated for the impact they make in the lives of those they serve.
My grandfather and I sharing a moment on his front porch after him leaving the barbecue pit at Perry’s Pig
Father Figures
Although I loved my father dearly, he left when I was nine years old and passed away unexpectedly when I was fifteen. Thankfully, I was never without positive male influences in my life. My grandfather was a constant source of wisdom, teaching me about money management, how to drive, and the value of perseverance. He even purchased my first car, a 1981 Honda Civic hatchback. Some of my favorite memories are riding the back roads of Augusta, Georgia with him while learning to drive. He also encouraged me to pursue higher education and believe in my future. His brother, Uncle Pap, added laughter, encouragement, and plenty of barbecue to my childhood memories from his barbecue restaurant.
As an adult, my paternal uncles stepped in during one of the most difficult seasons of my life, helping me rebuild after a painful divorce with practical support and genuine love. I was also blessed by mentors like Chief Lane, my ROTC Instructor, who stood beside me when my grandfather was ill and took his place during the father-daughter waltz at my debutante cotillion. There are countless fathers, educators, coaches, and male role models whose quiet guidance strengthens families and communities every day. Their influence reminds me that fatherhood is not defined solely by biology, but by presence, sacrifice, love, and commitment.
The Other Guys
We all know the other guys. The absent fathers, the inconsistent fathers, and the men whose choices have made Father’s Day difficult for many families. But they shouldn’t define how we view fatherhood. I’d rather focus on the fathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors, and father figures who consistently show up with love, guidance, sacrifice, and support. If you’ve been blessed by a positive male influence, take a moment to thank them. Good fathers are still here, making a difference in their families and communities every day. Happy Father’s Day to the men who lead with honor, love with intention, and show up when it matters most.
Purpose Filled Mommy with Minimarie 