Rashied’s Path was shaped by Family
Rashied’s father, Marion Leroy Davis was a good provider. Rashied remembers a loving father who taught him how to take responsibility for himself and work with his hands, whether around the house or under the hood of a car. His military background accounted for the order he brought to his parenting. Although his disciplinary approach was sometimes harsh, Rashied learned from it. It made him stronger and he vowed never to emulate it.
Rashied’s mother Judy Ann Jamerson, whose sweet singing voice still makes him cry, taught him how to survive. She expressed her love in many ways, but none more profound than her ability to take control of the house after her husband was killed. With nine mouths to feed, Judy focused on the most basic human needs—food, shelter and safety. Her life was one of continual struggle, living day to day, doing what she could to provide for her children.
Rashied’s aunt, Bertha Lee, gave him discipline and faith, which to her went hand in hand. What better way to praise God and follow his path than through self control and vigilant adherence to doing the right thing. That faith took Rashied through his worst moments and ultimately pushed him forward to a better place.