From Prof. Addison's Funeral

The Book of Deuteronomy tells the story of Moses having to die and turning  over his leadership role to Joshua, leaving him with these words: "Be strong and of good courage" 31:7. From this passage of scripture, the Rev. Wilson  took his text and entitled his sermon "I've gone as far as I can go."

How appropriate. Six (6) speakers representing various facets of Prof.  Addison's life preceded the eulogy, and all spoke of his component and compassionate leadership. They recounted how so many depended on him and how he never said no but was always ready to help.

In the fall of 1981, ten (10) young men alarmed Prof. Addison's door with a statement and a question. The statement: "We heard you are an Alpha." The question: "What must we do to be just like you?"

He COULD have responded:

" That's admirable, but I am too busy to invest time, resources and energy into such an undertaking. You see, I have two children your age, Donna and Clarence, who are in college. I have two children at home, Madre and Christy, who require a great deal of attention, and I have a wife, Rubilee, who relies on me heavily. I am a leader in my church. My graduate chapter, Gamma Gamma Lambda, depends on me. In the community, I hold key positions with many organizations, and my professional affiliations look to me for valued input. Surely, you must be able to imagine the burden of preparing an academic syllabus for aspiring architectural students. I just don't have the time. Best of luck to you."

- But that's NOT what he said. He not only took the time to lead in the formation of the chapter but to instill in those young men who disturbed his comfort the true meaning of the tenets of the venerable fraternity: Manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind. He made them trailblazers who cleared a path for others to follow, espousing the precepts of "First of All, Servant of all, transcending all."

With a great sense of responsibility, respect and remembrance, I went recalling how Prof. Addison:

• Packed us into his family's green paneled station wagon and transported us throughout the state, ensuring we were duly initiated - never asking for a dime, and we never offered.

• Stood before student affairs and faculty advisory boards to ensure our recognition and acceptance on the campus - putting his reputation on the line.

• Negotiated with the state and national organization of the fraternity to ensure the chartering of Alphas at Clemson was not handled haphazardly.

• Introduced us to Alpha giants in the community and state, who helped promote our presence on the campus through appearances and financial resources.

• Laid the groundwork for the 1st MLK Commemoration celebration on the campus under the auspices of Men Interested in Alpha (MIA), now in its 23rd (1986) year as a university-sponsored event.

• Was always, always present and available.

• PROUD he was of us.