Throughout June, we’ll be highlighting the men and boys whose stories, milestones, and presence continue to leave a mark on our family and community.
Arthur Lee Lamison was the fifth child born to Winget Lamison and Beatrice Barnes, and one of the beloved grandchildren of Langston Barnes and Rhea Mae Blow.
Arthur seemed to enter this world already grown, full of confidence, adventure, and endless energy. I often thought country life was too quiet for his lively spirit, yet there was no place he loved more than Capron, Virginia. It was home, and it always held his heart.
Arthur was the proud father of two children, Leticia, affectionately known as “TT” and lovingly called “Byrd” by many, and Arthur II, better known as “Lil Art.”
Although his military career often kept him away, the love and respect his children have for him speak volumes about the father he was. Listening to them share stories about their dad has been a blessing. They remember the life lessons he taught, the discipline he gave when needed, and the unwavering love that guided everything he did.
One story that always makes me smile came from his granddaughter, Mesha. Arthur overheard her using profanity while talking to a boy on the telephone.
After she hung up, he gently but firmly reminded her that she was a young lady and deserved to carry herself with dignity.
Then he had her call the boy back and apologize for her language.
It was a simple moment, but it revealed the kind of grandfather and father he was.
Character mattered to Arthur.
As a career Army veteran, including three tours in Vietnam, I did not have the opportunity to watch him raise his children day by day.
But I never needed to.
The deep love, admiration, and longing his children and grandchildren still have for him are living proof of the father he was.
I also remember visiting his daughter in North Carolina when he let his granddaughters take turns driving his car.
Their lesson ended with the car bumping into the porch!
Surprisingly, Arthur didn’t get angry. He simply handled it with patience and good humor.
As his baby sister, I have my own memories. Arthur started teaching me how to drive when I was only about twelve years old.
He was fearless and adventurous, always ready to try something new.
Arthur’s service to our country came with sacrifice, but even while serving overseas, his thoughts were always with family.
During his time in Vietnam, he mailed gifts home so we could proudly show them off at school. He bought us a set of encyclopedias because it would help us in school. He bought Doretha her very much needed eyeglasses. He even sent our mother beautiful pots and pans.
Those thoughtful gestures reminded us that although he was thousands of miles away, his heart never left home.
Arthur also had a personality that could fill a room. He had plenty to say, a quick wit, and a gift for storytelling that entertained everyone around him.
Our grandmother loved taking him with her and Uncle Herman, affectionately known as “High Meat,” to the racetrack because they thoroughly enjoyed his stories and company.
Arthur was more than a 20-year veteran.
He was a good father, a loving grandfather, a caring son, a protective brother, and a man whose love was expressed through both words and actions.
He was not a hypocrite.
Though he has been gone for many years, his legacy continues to live on in the values he instilled in his children that are well on their way to a fourth generation who still carries his memory with pride.
He is deeply missed.
By Leatha Lamison-White
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