Sen. Cory Booker Shares Intimate Memories Of His Late Father

NEWARK, NJ — Cary Booker was larger than life, according to his son. And eight years after his death, Sen. Cory Booker still remembers his father’s struggle with Parkinson's disease – and the inspiring sense of humor that the disease couldn’t dull.

Booker, a Newark resident, wrote about his father’s passing Sunday on social media. He said:

“My dad died on this day in 2013 of Parkinson's.

“During a movie once, my mom turned to me and said, ‘Take your dad to the bathroom.’ The life reversal was laid plain. All the years of my dad taking me to the bathroom, now I was taking him.

“Leading my dad out, he could barely walk and he seemed lost to dementia. We got to the bathroom and to a urinal. His hands were shaking so much he couldn't undo his pants. So I leaned over and began to undo his belt, hoping no one would come in. And, of course, right then, a man burst in, walking quickly til he got to us and then I heard his feet slow to a stop. He spoke. ‘Cory Booker!’ I was mortified. ‘Is that you!?’ And then, to my relief, he began enthusiastically telling me how much he loved my work (I politely didn't shake the hand he offered me).

“Then, something amazing happened. I looked at my dad and I saw him fully. He didn't look distant or affected by the dementia. It was all HIM. I saw his mirth, his wicked sense of humor. My dad could see the hilarity in the moment and loved it. His eyes glowed and he gave me a proud wry smile that spoke words to my heart I had longed to hear.

“Cary Booker was larger than life. Born poor, to a single mom who eventually had to give him up. He could have lived life with a dark disposition. But he greeted the world with a playfulness; constant humor; and a delight in people that affected everyone and ultimately shaped my DNA.

“My dad took so long in a supermarket check out line because he and the worker would inevitably bond, sharing life stories. He could have a heart to heart with anyone anywhere. He affirmed the humanity of all and the folk he loved most were those that were judged, looked down on or just ignored.

“He delighted in sharing small acts of grace, kindness and love. Even if his only gift could be making you feel seen or helping you find your smile. He just imparted simple penetrating truths: YOU MATTER; YOU ARE WORTHY. YOU ARE A GLORIOUS REFLECTION OF GOD.

“And in that Atlanta bathroom, my dad loved my embarrassment. He reminded me, even amidst his awful struggles: never ever surrender your joy, perspective or light. Never stop unapologetically giving love to all.”

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