# Obituary Assignment Jethro Jones, [[EDUC 7650]] Can also be viewed at [drjethro.com/obit](https://drjethro.com/obit) ## Assignment Directions Who are you? Who were you? Read the attached obituary sheet describing the lives of nine fictious individuals. First, identify which individual do you find most interesting and why? Then, imagine that you’ve kicked the bucket, departed us, at age 80. Write your obituary in 150 or more words. And if you're up for it, I'd like your thoughts about this assignment. ## Assignment My favorite from the examples, was Bo's. All too often there is too much hagiography around anyone dying, especially with famous people, may of whom are likely quite evil when it comes down to it! So, Bo's was true to who he was. While that was the one that made me laugh, it probably would never happen in real life. Here's what I would write for myself: > Jethro Dean Jones, passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his loving family. While Jethro's many accomplishments could be lauded by man, his true happiness came from how his children and grandchildren have grown and developed and brought people closer to Christ. Jethro was known for his kindness, humor, and deep belief in people’s potential. > His crowning achievement in his life was "A Decade Never to be Forgotten" a podcast, journal and community which helped people come closer to Christ and be united with Him, for this was Jethro's desire for his whole life, to bring people closer to Christ, the only true Author of our salvation. > Anything that helped people come closer to Christ was valuable to Jethro, no matter how small the step. All previous accomplishments led to that one great whole. Jethro truly saw people as they could become, not just as they were. As it relates to this assignment, if this is what I want people to say about me when I'm gone, what am I doing now to make this happen? I believe that I am heading down this path, but I still have so far to go. My goal is clear, but my weaknesses and inadequacies are glaringly stopping me from achieving my true potential. Naturally, I first asked ChatGPT using my custom bot what Obituary it would write. It's [first response](https://chatgpt.com/share/67955435-cbf4-800f-8541-e3a26b64e5d9) was much too long, and the second, coming in at 146 words, was better: > Jethro Jones, an inspiring leader, author, and mentor, passed away at 80, leaving a legacy of transformative impact in education. A champion of innovation, Jethro empowered school leaders through his _Transformative Principal Mastermind_ program, podcast, and books, including _SchoolX_. His work helped principals evolve from managers into visionary leaders, fostering dynamic schools worldwide. > With his mantra, “Stop putting out fires, start leading,” Jethro redefined professional development, blending personalized coaching with actionable strategies. His passion for growth extended beyond education, touching countless lives through his teachings on leadership, mental fitness, and resilience. > Known for his kindness, humor, and deep belief in people’s potential[^1], Jethro was not only a leader but a devoted family man and friend. His legacy endures through the lives he changed and the leaders he inspired. A celebration of his remarkable life will be held [date/location]. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. [^1]: The only thing I took from the chatGPT responses was this line, because that is actually true. I am kind, I have a good sense of humor, and I always have, and I truly see peoples' potential.