To Dad With Love

Eric “Buddy” Davis

“Loving, energetic, laid back, busy, family oriented and proud father.” – Pamela Davis

Eric “Buddy” Davis, a program specialist at The University of Maryland School of Dentistry and an Annapolitan, is a proud father who helps to raise 17-year-old Donovan Davis. His son was diagnosed with autism at a young age. 

“He would be considered Level 3 on the Autism Spectrum Disorder,” said Donovan’s grandmother, Pamela Davis. 

Some of Eric’s best traits are his patience and attention to detail, according to his mother. He is an excellent example of fatherhood because he does whatever it takes to make sure Donovan has the best  possible quality of life. 

“On top of that, he shares with the world what it’s like to raise someone who has autism through social media posts. He has never neglected his responsibilities, and when things get tough, he is right there always smiling and never complaining,” Pamela explained.

Eric protects his son while trying to elevate his quality of life. He pushes him to achieve more independence, but there are many challenges Eric faces while raising and co-parenting Donovan. 

“When you are raising someone with autism, it can be very difficult to get proper sleep. Donovan can have days where he is up for 24 hours. Eric still must work at a demanding job and still be productive, so finding moments to rest is important and the windows are unpredictable. Donovan also is very strong and when he has moments of frustration my son has to calm him, which can be a difficult task, but he manages,” said Pamela.

Black fathers who step up to take great care of their children like Eric do exist.

“I would like the world to know that there are plenty of strong, loving, caring, emotionally intelligent, protective, and proud Black fathers who prioritize family and build their life around it,” said Pamela.

 Eric has also coached youth sports and organized events and discussion panels to give parents dealing with autistic children a platform to express and connect with other families.

“Continue to pray and be your authentic self. I love you Bud and my breath is your breath,” Pamela said, while sending her son a Father’s Day message.

Damon Speaks

“He leads by example, showing us that with dedication and effort, we can achieve our dreams.” – Simrin Speaks

Damon Speaks, a real estate investor who resides in Baltimore County, raises the bar for his family and others who encounter him.

“He’s an excellent example of fatherhood because he’s so selfless and he leads with actions. If we have problems he listens with no judgment, and we find solutions instead of dwelling on problems,” Seneha Speaks said about her caring yet stern superhero.

She added, “I always know if I call my Dad, he’s there.” 

Her favorite trait is her father’s sense of empathy. He cares for strangers, no questions asked.

She added “His dedication to the community and giving back always keeps me humble and proud to be his daughter.”

Her favorite family activity is traveling together, experiencing new cultures, and trying new foods.

Seneha mentioned that she would like to tell her father that she appreciates him in every way. 

“You’ve shown me a perfect example of what a genuine, caring man is and I’ll always love you forever and ever!”

Seneha’s sister, Simrin agreed that their inspiring father is hardworking and dedicated. 

“He is a successful entrepreneur and real estate investor who has built his business from the ground up. His commitment to both his professional and family life is truly admirable.”

She also said that their father effortlessly balances his demanding career with his responsibilities as a father.

“He is always present, providing guidance and support, and ensuring that his family feels loved and valued. His ability to lead by example and instill strong values in his children makes him an excellent father.”

She feels proud to be Damon’s daughter because he is a role model for his daughter and many others. 

“Thank you for being an amazing father, a role model, and a source of strength and inspiration!” she said.

Kymmar D. Williams

“My dad has been an example by simply being in my life and being himself.” – Ja’el Williams

Kymmar D. Williams, a computer engineer who resides in Howard County, Maryland with his family, is an example of a man who embraces his fatherly role with joy and confidence. His wife, Dr. Veronique Williams; 20-year-old daughter, Ja’el Williams; 12-year-old stepson, David Murphy; 8-year-old daughter, Noelle Williams; and one year old son, Noah Williams are Williams’ family unit.

“I would describe my father as very hardworking, generous, and funny. My favorite thing about my dad is  he’s always preparing for the future. He thinks ahead not only for himself, but for his whole family,” said Ja’el.

Ja’el, now a performer, rapper and sound engineer, reminisced about the old days when Kymmar took her to the circus, which was one of her favorite outings with her father. 

“I’m not 100% sure what my purpose is yet, but that’s fine because I’m still young. My dad also taught me to go at my own pace as long as I’m not stagnant. My dad has been an example by simply being in my life and being himself.” She learned that to fulfill her purpose, she needs to focus and work hard.

Ja’el wants her father to know that she truly appreciates him and is proud of how much he has grown as a person. 

“No matter what we go through, or what the world throws at us I will always and forever love him,” said Ja’el.

Noelle, Williams’ youngest daughter, described their father as loving, considerate, generous, and encouraging. Kymmar helps her in life with her martial arts and other life components.

“He tells me to always try to walk in the fruit of the spirit to be an example. The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control,” said Noelle.

Noelle is already being taught how to build for her future. 

“My dad shows me how to save money, invest, get a house, how to love someone and how they should love you, and how to follow in God’s word,” she said.

Noelle added, “You are a great dad. You help support our family. You give us food to eat. You pray for us when we’re sick and all the time. We love you, daddy!”

Anthony Jackson

“He is an excellent example of fatherhood because of the wisdom he brings to the table.” – O’Ryan Te’i Rashard Coleman-El

Attentive fathers are a blessing to their families who rely on them from day-day for things both great and small. O’Ryan Te’i Rashard Coleman-El, a 19-year-old Annapolitan, reflects on the bond that he shares with his father, Anthony Jackson.

“He gives off a lot of respect and courtesy,” said Coleman-El. 

Jackson, a Director of Media Relations, founder of Expedite Vending, entrepreneur, and University of Baltimore student, brings needed wisdom to his son’s life. He taught Coleman-El how to mature, live up to being a man, progress, and establish values , morals and principles in life. He also taught his son about goal setting and completing things from start to finish.

Coleman-El also said, “Without fathers we wouldn’t have that discipline and we mature slower.” 

Jackson and his son share down time, too. Anthony’s son enjoys heading to the mall to look at Jordan tennis shoes with his father.

When it comes to Black father- son relationships, Coleman-El wants the world to know that Black fathers are needed. They help their children to obtain  mental stability and development as a “whole person in life.”

He also said,” I love him no matter what happens in life. I’ll always be there when he needs a hand.”