In moments of loss, many of us search for a place of peace—a space where reflection comes naturally and the noise of grief quiets just enough for us to think clearly. For me, that place has always been near the water.
Recently, my family experienced the loss of someone deeply important to us—my Uncle Larry, Mr. Larry Wilson. In the days following his passing, I found myself returning to that peaceful space by the water, reflecting on the impact he had on my life and the lives of so many others.
Though I prepared a speech for his service, circumstances kept me from delivering it. Still, the words felt too important to remain unspoken. I decided to share them through a video tribute and this reflection so that his legacy can continue to live on.
A Consistent Presence
For nearly three decades—about 25 to 28 years—Uncle Larry was a consistent and guiding presence in my life. Anyone who has had a steady mentor or elder figure understands how powerful that consistency can be. It is not always loud or dramatic. Often, it shows up in small moments of advice, quiet encouragement, and the simple act of being present.
Those are the moments that shape us.
When my sister called to tell me the news of his passing, the weight of it settled in slowly. At first, I thought the call was about everyday matters—things that could wait until tomorrow. But grief has a way of reminding us that tomorrow is never guaranteed.
That realization forced me into reflection.
The Meaning of Stewardship
One of the roles Uncle Larry carried with great pride was serving as the Pastor Steward at St. Mary’s AME Zion Church. When I reflected on that title, I began to think deeply about what stewardship really means.
A steward does not own the house—they care for it.
They manage what has been entrusted to them. They protect it. They nurture it. They serve others through it.
In many ways, that definition perfectly described Uncle Larry.
He was a steward of faith, a steward of family, and a steward of community.
His life demonstrated the quiet strength that comes from responsibility and humility. He understood that leadership is not always about being in front—it is often about caring for others and helping maintain the foundation that supports everyone.
Honesty, Accountability, and Brotherhood
There was something else about Uncle Larry that always stood out: his ability to speak honestly while still showing love.
In my fraternity, we have a saying:
“A true friend can rebuke me, and I am not ashamed.”
That principle reflects the kind of accountability that strengthens families and communities. Uncle Larry understood that truth and encouragement go hand in hand. He challenged people when necessary, but he did so from a place of care.
That kind of leadership is rare, but it is deeply valuable.
Understanding Grief
Losing someone we love brings a complex set of emotions. Grief often moves between reflection on the past and concern about the future.
When we dwell too long on memories, grief can begin to resemble depression—an overwhelming focus on what once was. On the other hand, when we look too far ahead, we can become anxious about what life will look like without the person we lost.
Both reactions are natural.
But Uncle Larry’s life reminds us of something important: the present moment is where we must continue living.
Tomorrow is never promised, but today is still ours to steward.
A Legacy That Lives Through Us
During the gathering where we celebrated Uncle Larry’s life, I saw something powerful: decades of relationships, love, and shared experiences represented in one place.
That is the true measure of a life well lived.
Not wealth.
Not status.
But the people whose lives were touched along the way.
Uncle Larry left behind a legacy of wisdom, strength, and faith. His example challenges us to become stewards in our own way—to care for our families, support our communities, and live with integrity.
Moving Forward With Purpose
While his absence will be deeply felt, his presence remains through the lessons he shared and the example he set.
The best way we can honor Uncle Larry is not only through remembrance but through action.
Through stewardship.
Through service.
Through living fully in the present.
I invite you to watch the video tribute I created in his honor and reflect on the stewards in your own life—the people whose influence continues shaping who you are today.
Their legacy, like Uncle Larry’s, lives on through us.
Watch the tribute video:
Honoring a Steward: A Tribute to Mr. Larry Wilson
