Travis J. Simons

Happy Heavenly Birthday, Daddy. Wow.

I never imagined writing these words without being able to call you, hear your voice, or see that smile. This is our first year without both of our parents, and today carries a different kind of weight. Still, on this day, I choose gratitude.
Instead of counting the years we lost, I am counting the gifts you gave.

Today, in honor of your 75th birthday, I want to name seven things I admired about you. Seven reflections of the man who shaped me, covered us, and pointed us toward God.
1. The way you loved my mother.
Your love was not just spoken, it was lived. You showed us what covenant looked like. You loved her with loyalty, protection, sacrifice, and tenderness. Watching you love her taught us how love should look when it is real.
2. The way you loved and affirmed us.
You made us feel seen. You spoke life into us. You believed in us even when we were still becoming. Your affirmation gave us confidence before we even knew we needed it.
3. Your love for God and your prayer life.
You were a praying man. Not just in public, but in private. Prayer was your language, your refuge, your weapon, and your anchor. Heaven knew your voice.
4. Your commitment to serving your congregation and people in general.
You did not just preach to people, you pastored them. You showed up. You cared deeply. You served with sincerity, humility, and consistency. You loved people where they were. 5. The way you led with grace and truth.
You told the truth in love. Not rude. Not harsh. Just honest and clear. You corrected with care and challenged with compassion. Even your silence carried wisdom.
6. Your work ethic and determination.
You worked hard. You stayed steady. You did not quit when things were heavy. You modeled perseverance long before we had words for it.

7. Your love for golf.
You would tell my mom you were going to see your therapist, and we knew exactly what you meant. Golf was your joy, your release, your quiet place.

I miss you more than words can say. But today, I honor you. I thank God for you. I carry you with me. Happy Birthday!

Happy 13th Birthday to my son Isaiah aka Zay Zay 🎉
13 is a milestone. Not just another birthday but a turning point.

Today you officially step into your teenage years. I’m proud of the young man you’re becoming. Your heart. Your curiosity. Your humor. Your strength. Your growth.

You are loved beyond measure. Covered in prayer. Guided with purpose. And destined for greatness.

Keep being you. Keep learning. Keep growing. And never forget your dad is always in your corner.

Love you forever, Zay Zay ❤️