Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

David Smith Sr., 70: Sam Cooke's 'Bring It on Home to Me'

David Smith Sr., of Vinton, La., was a master fisherman. He died of COVID-19 on New Year's Day at the age of 70.
David Smith Jr.
David Smith Sr., of Vinton, La., was a master fisherman. He died of COVID-19 on New Year's Day at the age of 70.

My father loved Sam Cooke's "Bring It on Home to Me." In the song, Cooke sings to a woman who he's in love with. When I hear the song, I think of my father's deep love for my mother and his children.

My father was a master fisherman. He used to host fish fries and serve his catch to family and friends. I remember him, with a towel over his shoulder, calling for me to be his "taste tester." I can also remember him forgoing dinner so his guests could eat. Seeing his guests and family enjoy themselves was far more important to him. The dinners also gave him a platform to share his faith — stuffed faces don't talk back!

When I listen to "Bring It on Home to Me," I think of just how loving and warm my father was. No matter what happened, he would always welcome us home. —David Smith Jr., son

Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.