William Joseph Self

We pay tribute to my Father. He is also a Brother, Uncle, Cousin, and Friend. William Joseph Self died Monday March 12 2012 at the age of 64. He was preceded in death by two brothers Charles Ronald Self, Daniel R. Self, by his father William Gladstone Self, his mother Pearl Adams, and step-father Daniel Adams. He is survived by his two children Nathan Self and Bonnie Taylor, and his brothers Jerry Self, Danny Adams, and Rodney Adams.

Known to friends and family as Billy or Billy Joe, he served in the United States Marine Corp as a machinist from March 3rd 1968 until July 21 1971. After the Marine Corp Billy Joe became a talented carpenter. Everyone that saw his work all agreed that he was an amazing carpenter and could build just about anything.

He was not rich as to the things of this world but he was rich in the love and friendship that was felt for him. He did not have much “stuff” but he had pictures that mattered to him up on the wall – picture of Christ I gave him this past Christmas, and pictures of my brother Nathan and I at various points in our growing up, as well as a picture of his mom, Mawmaw Pearl. He had his scriptures for his soul and the basic necessities for his mortal life here upon this earth. It could have made me very sad to see that he didn’t have much of what this world values. But what I saw as I looked at his few belongings there in Uncle Danny’s house laid out so neatly was that I mattered to him and that meant more to me than any riches he could have left me.

Although we hadn’t spoken for a while, when we did reconnect nearly five years ago I was so happy to have him back in my life. I loved our talks. There is something so powerful about family and about that eternal connection. As we spoke I heard somewhere that I belonged. I heard what felt like home.

To some he may have been known as a former mechanic in the Marines or an amazing carpenter, but to me he was my Daddy and I love him and will miss him till we can meet again.

Burial was with Military Honors in Port Hudson National Cemetery, Port Hudson, Louisiana on Monday, March 19, 2012.

Jacob Schoen and Son Funeral Home, New Orleans, LA was in charge of arrangements.