Today, I'm missing a dear friend, Basil Oliphant Phillips, who meant so much to so many. Basil, distinguished retired photo editor for Johnson Publishing Company and director of special markets and promotions for JPC's book divison, was a committed and caring supporter of the Coretta Scott King Awards. He also introduced me to the world of children's book publishing.
Basil took me to my first American Library Association conference. He made sure I met important people in the industry including Wade and Cheryl Hudson of Just Us Books, who would later give me my first two book deals. He took me to a dinner where I got to greet the wonderful McKissacks, who would one day mentor me at the Writers Workshop at Chautauqua. He encouraged my dream of writing for children.
The kind of spirit Basil possessed is brilliant and rare. He was a historian who had the pictures in JPC's famed photo files -- known as the world's most definitive collection of black photographic images -- committed to memory and could find just the shot he was searching for in moments. He was a nurturer who kept extra trench coats and umbrellas in his office at the ready in case someone was in need. He was a gentleman who walked on the street side and shuddered to think of someone beating him to hold open a door. He had a heart so big that giving was not just a nice thing to do, it was his instinct.
But make no mistake: Basil was no softie. He had a tongue so sharp it could cut you if you weren't looking ;). His charm endeared him to many.
When I moved South, Basil and I stayed in close touch. He came to my wedding, proudly sent my baby daughter delightful dresses and signed the elegant cards with love from Uncle Basil. He was so happy to hold her on his lap at his room in the Warren-Barr Pavilion. I wish I had a picture that captured that moment. But it's etched in my mind.
When I think of Basil, I remember how he led by example, showing us in the younger generation the joy of giving back by taking us to sickle cell benefits and history society luncheons where we proudly sang "Lift Every Voice and Sing." I remember his twinkling eyes, sweet smile, his generosity, grace and sass. I remember the yellow flowers he loved.
I miss him a lot, but I'm so grateful God gave me the chance to know him. Basil passed away on August 27, 2007. His spirit lives on. Today, on his birthday, I celebrate his life and legacy. The world is a better place because you were in it, Basil. Thank you for your love, kindness and support.
One day, I'll tell the children your story. Until then, I carry you always in my heart.
I love you,
Kelly
Basil took me to my first American Library Association conference. He made sure I met important people in the industry including Wade and Cheryl Hudson of Just Us Books, who would later give me my first two book deals. He took me to a dinner where I got to greet the wonderful McKissacks, who would one day mentor me at the Writers Workshop at Chautauqua. He encouraged my dream of writing for children.
The kind of spirit Basil possessed is brilliant and rare. He was a historian who had the pictures in JPC's famed photo files -- known as the world's most definitive collection of black photographic images -- committed to memory and could find just the shot he was searching for in moments. He was a nurturer who kept extra trench coats and umbrellas in his office at the ready in case someone was in need. He was a gentleman who walked on the street side and shuddered to think of someone beating him to hold open a door. He had a heart so big that giving was not just a nice thing to do, it was his instinct.
But make no mistake: Basil was no softie. He had a tongue so sharp it could cut you if you weren't looking ;). His charm endeared him to many.
When I moved South, Basil and I stayed in close touch. He came to my wedding, proudly sent my baby daughter delightful dresses and signed the elegant cards with love from Uncle Basil. He was so happy to hold her on his lap at his room in the Warren-Barr Pavilion. I wish I had a picture that captured that moment. But it's etched in my mind.
When I think of Basil, I remember how he led by example, showing us in the younger generation the joy of giving back by taking us to sickle cell benefits and history society luncheons where we proudly sang "Lift Every Voice and Sing." I remember his twinkling eyes, sweet smile, his generosity, grace and sass. I remember the yellow flowers he loved.
I miss him a lot, but I'm so grateful God gave me the chance to know him. Basil passed away on August 27, 2007. His spirit lives on. Today, on his birthday, I celebrate his life and legacy. The world is a better place because you were in it, Basil. Thank you for your love, kindness and support.
One day, I'll tell the children your story. Until then, I carry you always in my heart.
I love you,
Kelly
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