The family took a trip down Interstate 95 a few weeks ago to celebrate a former colleague.
After 28 years coordinating the youth sports program for the Diocese of Wilmington, Joe McNesby hung up his whistle.
More than 8,000 young people play sports each year in the diocesan programs and for more than a generation, Joe lovingly guided their coaches through practices, games, and tournaments. More importantly, he guided their parents through the same. He coordinated the coordinators for individual sports, supported officials, and calmed the parents of the latest Michael Jordan or Peyton Manning when some coach thought he knew better.
During the party for Joe, hosted by his family, many people told stories of his generosity, his work ethic, and his love of family. But it was his youngest daughter’s words that stuck with me.
On a drive to the beach, his daughter said to him, “Dad, you go to Mass every day. You never miss it. So since we are alone, I wanted to ask, ‘What did you do?'”
It was a funny question and, given Joe’s sense of humor, the answer could have been just about anything. But after a few minutes of silence (silence that let the youngest think she might get an answer that would give her dirt on dear old dad), Joe spoke.
“Look around. Look at the beach. Look at our family. Four kids. Great marriage. Several grandchildren.” Joe paused.
“I don’t go to Mass because of what I have done. I go because of what I’ve received.”
Even in retirement, the man still coaches.
Thank you, Joe, for influencing the lives of so many. Including mine.
~pjd