“You can’t live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.”

— John Wooden

Father. Brother. Son. Uncle. Coach. Poet. Mentor.

Friend.

Any of these and myriad other terms could adequately describe Creighton Lane. The eighth of nine children, Creighton grew up in a home built on a foundation of love, loyalty, and giving, so it's no wonder that Paying It 4ward is the legacy he's left behind.

The son of convalescent home owners, being of service was instilled in Creighton, and all the Lane children, at a very young age. And helping others wasn't done for recognition or reward, it was just part of being a member of the human race. Also at the heart of his upbringing was a love of basketball. His unassuming nature made him a sight to see on the court, where he dazzled and electrified with sweet "dimes" and an even sweeter "J."

As he grew into his twenties, Creighton continued to play ball, and he continued to serve. He dedicated a decade of his life to the US Air Force. But military life wasn't always easy, and Creighton made some poor choices that, left uncontrolled, could have kept this amazing man from reaching his full potential.

Instead, as he transitioned back into civilian life, Creighton was himself the recipient of help that would positively change his life forever. In 1988, he began helping the Wilcox High School boys basketball team, and two short years later was a security guard at the school. But he did far more than protect students going from class to class; far more than map out plays and hammer home the importance of defense on the court—he reached out and made connections.

He was a father figure and mentor to many, passing along jewels of wisdom tucked in a short sentence or in one of his many poems that would make students and staff alike pause and think. Greater still, he was a friend to all. He had the uncanny ability to make each person he encountered feel as if he'd known them for years, building vital trust and a true sense of community in a time when both are rare. Creighton never overlooked anyone—if you needed help, he was there. And all he asked in return was that you Pay It 4ward when you had a chance.

In addition to Wilcox, Creighton served in various capacities as coach for both Saint Lawrence and Presentation High, as well as the Bay Area Ballers and the San Jose Ninja Youth Foundation, two travelling teams. He continued to coach and teach and serve even after being diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2013. And on February 25, 2014, Creighton lost his courageous battle with the disease.

But, as with all legacies, his story doesn't end there.

His daughter and son-in-law, Jessika and James Cuevas, and his dear friend Erroll Williams are keeping his spirit of service alive. The Creighton Lane Pay It 4ward Foundation will continue to touch the lives of the members of the community that Creighton called his own. With your support, we can keep the legacy going strong for years to come. Help us Pay It 4ward today and empower tomorrow's future.