It sounds like your dad knew all the right answers and made his own choices. I can't really comment on his situation because he may have mismanaged his money, he may have followed his plan to the letter, he may have made less than you believed and this is just the reality.

It sounds like you also have the knowledge to make and follow a plan. I would not be looking at turning it over to Ed Jones. They can give you a plan (just like you have today and just like your dad had) and what you do with it is up to you. <pay us for the service please>.