Mr. Croaker was born in the Jackson Ward neighborhood of Richmond, Virginia once called "Little Africa" for its predominant African American demographic. It was the destination for African Americans migrating from the farmlands and plantations of Virginia and North Carolina to live and develop businesses. Mr. Croaker grew up amongst the striving black professionals and business owners of Jackson Ward. He was nicknamed for the croaking sound of his voice and inviting laugh, which contrasted with his smooth style and svelte demeanor. After graduating from Armstrong High School he traveled to New York to find work in what he affectionately referred to as Harlem USA. Mr. Croaker began to befriend starving artists, writers, jazz musicians, small time hustlers, and aspiring entrepreneurs, all of whom were trying to carve a niche for themselves in the big city. As time passed, Mr. Croaker grew most popular with the musicians, entertainers, and artists. He soon became well known among the jazz set and on many occasions was invited to accompany some of the popular trios and sextets as they toured throughout the South. Though not a musician of sorts, his popularity grew because of his ability to transcend North and South, country and city and even black and white. Mr. Croaker's blend of down home humility and big city flair was a trademark he word well and he soon became known as the ambassador for southern hospitality and big city sophistication.