When Mama's Gone Author:Richard O. Jones We have labeled Black men throughout the span of time as deadbeats dads. Our Black race, in particular and the world overall, has been exposed to negative images of our forefathers and brothers for so long that our lack of responsibility is expected. However, contrary to the racist propaganda, ignorance and media hype, Black fathers are rising... more » to the occasion of responsible single fatherhood in record numbers. Many issues may cause a unit to separate. Sometimes it's in the best interest of the children that a dishonorable father is removed from their daily environment and upbringing. This autobiographical account was written to give you, the reader, a rare look at the other side of the Black man's image as a father. This story is a candid view of a man's struggle with worldly and godly principles, while raising his four daughters as a single parent. Richard Jones, who is an atheist with a criminal lifestyle, marries Annie Man Champs, a devoted Christian. This paradoxical marriage drifts apart on moral issues. In his quest to give his daughters a positive female role model, following the death of their mother, Richard Jones staggers along a spectrum of unethical live-in housekeepers to an unfaithful live-in lover. However, Annie had implanted godly seeds in his mind and returns through visions to cultivate them. Jones, who was raised by a loving and hardworking single mother, with a volatile streak of tyranny, was now struggling to be a nurturing dual parent. He discovers that parenthood is a heavy burden without God, but is reluctant to abandon his beliefs and criminal activities, which was his only source of income. The Jones girls experience the instability of separation during the prison incarceration of their father, which landed them in foster homes and extended periods with distant relatives. The mistakes and poor judgments of their father brought many indignities upon them, leaving deep-seated resentment. Upon his prison release, Jones fights to reunite with his daughters and dispel his negative image. Outwardly, Jones portrays a man with unshakable confidence, but in reality he is more apprehensive than he dare reveal. The mental visions and words of his departed wife, Annie, continues to revisit and guides him through rough times. This book takes you into the mind and life of a dedicated criminal plunged into single parenthood due to unfortunate circumstances. His yearning to become the father he never had, and make sense of his situation, channels him to thoroughly examine his past and spiritual beliefs. In search of a better life, Jones transforms from criminal to college instructor, from con man to columnist. Tough realities are explored and harsh truths are exposed.« less