Deidre Lam
One of the greatest gifts the higher being ever bestowed on me was the chance to know Uncle Wellington, as I always called him, four decades ago. Looking back now, all the weekends and countless moments I spent with him and his family were like my own version of Tuesdays with Morriea—time filled with wisdom, reflection, and life’s most meaningful lessons.
Uncle Wellington was a devoted husband who took pride in growing alongside Auntie Priscilla, both in their professional journeys and their personal passions. He was a hands-on father who never missed a parent-teacher interview and who supported his children with unwavering love.
He was also a world-class academic, lecturer, and author—someone who poured his heart into teaching and who tirelessly fundraised for Occidental College to help the university become the best version of itself. His contributions to scholarship and education have left a legacy that will continue to shape countless lives.
Yet, despite all his achievements, Uncle Wellington remained humble, gentle, endlessly thoughtful, and profoundly kind. He carried his success with grace and treated everyone around him with sincerity and compassion.
Although he is no longer with us physically, his influence, kindness, and love will forever remain in my heart. I will always be grateful that our paths crossed and that I was welcomed into his family as one of their own.
