I was born March 6, 1937 in an area called, Big Wills Valley, Etowah Co. Alabama. I attended grades 1-5 @ Bellevue elementary school, Mitchell elementary for the 6^th grade, Disque Jr. Hi grades 7-8 and High School 9-12 at Gadsden High (Go Tigers) "Class of 55".

After graduation I went to work for my Dad as apprentice Bricklayer. In 1956 he moved the family to San Diego, CA. To be close to my older brother Reggie, who had served 4 years in the Navy, and had decided to stay in CA.

After coming to San Diego, I finished my apprenticeship in bricklaying and got my contractors license in 1963. I operated as a contractor until my retirement in March of 2001. I am enjoying retirement playing golf 2 days a week, and spending time with my wife Marlene (of 52 years) , our 6 children, and our 8 adorable granddaughters (2 sets of twins) and three grandson's. We attend Shadow Mt. Community Church and I Thank God for many years of good health, (note, now I have all those problems of growing old)and how He has blessed me abundantly!