Picture of a Man

On this, the seventh anniversary of the death of Samuel Mockbee - I spent more than an hour mulling through thousands of photographs to find the perfect one to celebrate his amazing life. This is the one that touched my heart this year.

Jackie and Julius Mockbee accepting the 2003 AIA Gold Medal
awarded posthumously to Sambo Mockbee

Yes, Sambo inspired and continues to inspire hundreds and thousands of young architects (for kicks - google "inspired by Samuel Mockbee"). Sambo made better people out of all of us who were fortunate enough to know him. He is less famous for his genius as an artist, yet his paintings are as inspiring and thought provoking as his architecture. Above all of this, Sambo was an amazing Papa to Margaret, Sarah Ann, Carol, Julius and loving husband to Jackie Mockbee. Each of his children carry with them a part of Sambo's spirit - it is them and Jackie, that I salute and honor today - for they are Sambo's true legacy.

Samuel "Sambo" Mockbee
December 23, 1944 - December 30, 2001
Peace be with you friend, father, husband.