Troy Maxson Eulogy

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man.” He meant it. All day, he blabbed on and on. Until he picked his ass up and asked you to marry him. I never saw him happier again than the he day he made you his wife. You were his everything, and he could never let go of you, Rose.

Gabe, you wonderful man. You would always do things that made Troy smile. Your flowers. Your music. I remember when you ran down the street yellin’ at some kids. Troy laughed all the way until he realized he had to bail you out. Then he threw a fit, but let’s not get into that. You were his beloved brother, and nothin’ less, no matter what anyone said to you.

Lyons, every time you asked your father for money, he didn’t not want to give it to ya. He may have been a hard ass, but he loved you. He blamed himself for you even having to ask. Felt he wasn’t responsible enough as a father and failed you. He just wanted you to go out there and make it on your own. Make somethin’ of yourself. There was nothing wrong with that.

Raynell, little princess, you were your father’s little precious. You’re still so young, yet so much has happened around you. You’re gonna be something special when you grow up, I’ll tell you that. Your father bragged that you were the prettiest girl in town, and I see he wasn’t wrong on that. You’re gonna be a little heart breaker.

Cory, look at you all grown up, looking like old Troy. I know your father was tough on you, he wouldn’t let you play football, he told you he didn’t like you, I know. Well, let me tell you somethin’. He did it because he cared. He used to play baseball, and he was very good. But he never played in the majors leagues. And you know why? He was a negro, and negroes don’t get the same opportunity white folk do. He told me, “I got sense enough not to let my boy get hurt over playing no sports.” He didn’t want you to waste your time on something that would leave you like him. He wanted you to have a better life than he did, you understand? He did right by you. You’re wearin’ that uniform now, aren’t you?

By God, Troy was something else. I just can not believe he’s gone. He was the best friend I had. He was a loving husband, and a tough father who just wanted the best for his little boy. I’m gonna miss him. May he rest in peace.

Thank you.