James

Daddy, you always speak your truth, with a joke to make us smile

You wrap your arms around this family, protecting us the whole while

For Ginger, Lela, and Doon, we know you've always got our back

Supporting every single choice we make, keeping us on track

Daddy, we just want to say how much we love you

Thanking God for every day we get to hug you

We know the losses bring a heavy kind of sadness

But you still fill up all our empty rooms with gladness

Through the shadows and the tears, you bring us joy

Yeah, you bring us joy

Forty-something years ago, the Lord turned your life around

Now you're teaching Sunday school, planting seeds in holy ground

A deacon in the church, a faithful brother and a friend

Showing everyone you meet how to love until the end

Daddy, we just want to say how much we love you

Thanking God for every day we get to hug you

We know the losses bring a heavy kind of sadness

But you still fill up all our empty rooms with gladness

Through the shadows and the tears, you bring us joy

Yeah, you bring us joy

Ernestine Thompkins was the true light of your heart

You were the greatest husband to our mom, right from the start

Until God called her home, you gave her everything you had

We know you miss your grandson, we know it hurts so bad

But we are standing right beside you through the rain

Now you're a granddad and a great-granddad too

A legacy of tenderness is pouring out of you

Outspoken and so funny, but your spirit is so sweet

You make this healing family feel so complete

Daddy, we just want to say how much we love you

Thanking God for every day we get to hug you

We know the losses bring a heavy kind of sadness

But you still fill up all our empty rooms with gladness

Through the shadows and the tears, you bring us joy

Oh daddy, we appreciate you forever

Yeah, you bring us joy