Living a Legacy of Leadership

Be warned. If you choose to read this entire post, you will likely not know the individual primarily referenced here, Jerry Brenda. However, if you know me and my work then you should know Jerry Brenda and his influence on that work.

Jerry Brenda fell victim to the ravages of COVID less than 24-hours ago, yet another of that dreadful diseases most recent casualties. In his last days, in anticipation of the possible, Jerry assured me that his eternal salvation was secure. I believed him. Honestly, I know where his spirit is now. However, selfishly, I'm sad that his physical presence will no longer be with us. I already miss my friend.

Jerry and I met almost 41 years ago. He was a 37-year old seasoned corporate manager. I was a 23-year old green neophyte straight off the farm. He was a reserved, thoughtful, proven professional. I was an impetuous, reactive unproven kid. He hired me against the initial advice and directive of a wonderful man, his boss, Art Malek, Art appropriately pointing out there was no evidence to indicate I was ready for the position (and responsibility) for which I was hired.

Jerry respectfully disagreed -- then took a HUGE chance. He hired me anyway. He saw potential in me that no one else saw -- not even me. I will be forever grateful for his act of courage and faith. Beyond that, I will always be appreciative of the commitment he showed in working to develop my latent leadership abilities.

Jerry literally put his professional reputation on the line for me. As a result, he became more than my boss -- even though he was the best boss I've ever had. In the four short years I worked for Jerry (1980-1984), he became my teacher, my mentor, my professional confidante and my dear, life long friend.

In the 37 years since we parted professional company, we never lost contact. On average we would speak every 2-3 months with either of us initiating the contact. For 37 straight years I called on his birthday and on Good Friday. Good Friday 1980 was the day we met for my initial interview. For 37 straight years I called to thank him for believing in me then. Every time we talked he would stress once that he STILL believed in me. His belief helped me believe in myself -- that my greatest contributions still lie ahead.

Jerry will be missed terribly by his wife, Linda; children, Krista and Matthew; and his beloved grandchildren. Of course, his legacy will live on within his family based on the observable love, devotion, caring and sacrifice which he displayed every day of his life.

I will miss Jerry, too. But I'm confident that in the days ahead, each time I stand to address an audience or sit to document a leadership concept in a book, article or even a post like this one, Jerry's leadership influence will be present with me.

Defining my purpose -- always for the good of others.

Guiding my sensibilities -- always in search of truth.

Directing my path -- always moving toward the greater good.

30+ years ago, my foundational definition of leadership was crafted with Jerry as its flesh-and-blood personification: "Leadership is not position; leadership is the ability to offer service and the willingness to take action."

Jerry Brenda's life, work and leadership influence made a discernible difference in my life, work and leadership influence. If you, reading this, have benefited from something I personally have said, written or done over the years, then frankly, you owe a debt of gratitude to Jerry Brenda. I probably learned it from him.

If you're so inclined, pause for a moment to say a prayer for Jerry's family. While you're at it, pray that you can be a "Jerry" to someone else. Choose (then work) to be a courageous leader who makes a difference that will last beyond your time. If you do that, Jerry will live on in you, too.

NOTE: The photo above was taken (April 2016) at a private "appreciation reunion banquet" hosted by my friend and business partner, Martin Ramsay and myself. The four people pictured represent four of our greatest early professional influences. Pictured (left to right) me, Jerry Brenda, Art Malek, Steve Stamper and Martin Ramsay.

About Phillip Van Hooser, MBA, CSP, CPAE

For 30+ years, U.S. companies and organizations have trusted Phillip Van Hooser and his commonsense leadership approach to help them create a culture of trust, teamwork and valued employee engagement. His work leaves customers feeling like this:

“Van Hooser Associates is the right organization to help any team when it comes to leadership development.” — Anthony Kern, SVP, Govt & Workers Comp Svcs, Equian, LLC

An award-winning keynote speaker, leadership trainer and accomplished writer, Phil’s clear success plan is laid out in multiple books including Leaders Ought to Know: 11 Ground Rules for Common Sense Leadership. 

A Certified Speaking Professional, a member of the CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame, Phil is a 30+ year member and past president of the National Speakers Association, and is a recipient of the Cavett Award, NSA’s highest honor. Connect with him on LinkedIn or send him a message here.