The Women Who Raised Us: A Mother’s Day Tribute

Mother's Day tribute poster featuring the Barnes Blow family, honoring women who shaped their lives and legacy. The design includes elegant floral elements and heartfelt messages about love, strength, and guidance.

This Mother’s Day, we pause to honor the women who shaped our lives in ways big and small. Mothers. Grandmothers. Aunties. Sisters. The ones who stepped in, stood firm, and showed up when it mattered most.

We celebrate their love, their strength, and the legacy they continue to carry through each of us.

Honorees:

An elderly woman in formal attire, wearing a white jacket and hat, smiles while sitting at a table with event programs in front of her. The background features other guests and a light-colored interior.
Black and white portrait of a smiling young woman with curly hair, wearing a light-colored top with a bow, and vintage-style photography.

Selena Barnes – Courtland, VA


My mom is one of the kindest people I know, always putting others before herself. She has a caring heart and never hesitates to help anyone in need. Her love is constant and unconditional, and it’s what makes her so special to me. – Joy Barnes

Wishing a happy and blessed Mother’s Day to my wife, Selena Barnes. Enjoy the day!!! – Bob Barnes

Grace Viviane (Slaughter) Dillard – Born in Portsmouth, VA

Married to Edgar Dillard Sr. (Son of Flora Lee Blow), Mother of Edgar Jr/, Reginald, and Vivian

A Woman of Grace and Strength,

Thank you for sending me to the store, but following from a distance to make sure I was safe. You instilled confidence in me as a young girl that helps me every day as a woman.

For supporting my passion for photography, musical talent, the Boy Scouts, that famous Pineapple Upside Down Cake, our education, attending my wedding….

Thank you, Mom, for always believing in us, for your boundless love and every sacrifice!

Mother’s Day Is Always Here. Your Love Continues to Guide Us. We Love You – Vivian, Reginald, Edgar

A group of six women posing outdoors in front of a wooden building. The women are smiling and dressed in a variety of outfits, with one woman sitting in front and being embraced by another.
Two women smiling warmly at the camera in an outdoor setting, with a historic building in the background.

A few great mothers

From left to right, standing: Wonza Barnes Westbrook, Ater Barnes Deberry, Beatrice Barnes Lamison, Mary A. Barnes Battle, Dotise Barnes Claud, and Mama Rhea Mae Barnes – Henry Battle

Irean (Washington) Dillard – Locust Grove, GA

I have a mother that loves deeply, fearlessly enters into both my joys and sorrows, and prays without ceasing for all that concerns me and the ones I love. Her kindness, example and support have been one of the greatest blessings God has granted to me in this life. I am grateful to God, and to you mom, for who you are and all that you do! I love you!- Aurelia (Dillard) Smith

A woman smiling in a field of sunflowers, wearing a yellow and white striped shirt, with bright yellow sunflower petals in the foreground.
An older woman wearing glasses and a headscarf smiles while holding a small white puppy in her arms. She is sitting on a couch surrounded by cozy blankets.

Stacey Sinclair – Princeton, NJ

You’ve been a constant source of comfort, love, and support in our lives. No matter what life brings, we know we can always turn to you and feel grounded again. Thank you for showing up for us in ways that truly matter. We love and appreciate you more than words can say – Janay & Marshall

Irene (Beaver) Nicholas-Evans – Richmond, VA

On this Mother’s Day, we honor the late Irene Beaver Nicholas Evans, lovingly known as “GG,” a woman whose life has reflected faith, compassion, strength, and unconditional love. From Topeka, Kansas, to Providence, Rhode Island, Baltimore, Maryland, and Richmond, Virginia, she has carried grace and wisdom everywhere life has taken her. She is the devoted mother of Kirk and Robyn, cherished grandmother of Sheri, Janay, and Jordan, and a loving mother figure to Kevin, Stafford, and me. GG has always been a steady source of encouragement, comfort, and guidance for her family and everyone blessed to know her. Her love, faith, and nurturing spirit continue to shape generations and leave a lasting legacy rooted in kindness and resilience. Happy Mother’s Day, GG. Your love and legacy will forever live in our hearts.– Joseph Barnes

A family portrait featuring three women and a newborn baby. The women are sitting together, smiling, with one woman holding the baby in a blanket.
An elderly woman wearing a large black hat and blue attire with floral embroidery, smiling softly while sitting in a social setting.

Alice Sinclair, Stacey Sinclair, Ina Sinclair

We honor three incredible women who have poured so much love into our lives—Stacey A. Sinclair, her mother Alice Sinclair (Nana), and her grandmother Ina Sinclair (GMom). Stacey, you have been a constant source of comfort, support, and steady strength, always bringing a sense of peace we can count on. Nana, thank you for the love and foundation you built that continues to shape this family. GMom, your warmth, wisdom, and legacy live on in all of us every single day. Each of you has played a meaningful role in who we are today. Your love has carried us, grounded us, and continues to guide us forward. We are forever grateful for you, today and always. – Joseph Barnes

Roxie Mae (Wynn) Barnes

We honor the life and legacy of Roxie Mae Wynn Barnes, a woman whose love, faith, and strength continue to live on in all of us. A devoted deaconess, choir member, and teacher, she served faithfully and poured wisdom into generations through her church and her family. She raised her children with integrity and purpose, always leading by example, and welcomed everyone with a warm spirit and an open heart, often reminding us there was always room for one more. Her life was filled with love, song, and unwavering faith, and her presence continues to guide us each day. Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever honored. – Joseph Barnes

Happy Heavenly Mother’s Day to my loving, strong, devoted, and faithful mother. Your spirit lives on in all of us. – Bob Barnes

Two women posing together, both wearing white outfits, at a large indoor event with many people in the background.
A close-up portrait of an elderly woman wearing glasses and a patterned dress, smiling softly at the camera.

Denise Barnes Dotson, Darling Barnes

On this Mother’s Day,
I would like to honor two incredible mothers, my wife, Darling Barnes, and my daughter, Denise Barnes Dotson.

God has blessed me to have two angelic women in my life who have constantly given love and devotion to family and to those around them, made an incredible difference in my life and the lives of their children. Happy Mother’s Day! –
Rogers Barnes

Susie B. Faulcon

I will give recognition to my biological mom, Adeline Blow, who birthed me, and gratitude to my dear beloved mother, Susie B. Faulcon, who loved me unconditionally and raised me. Mom showed me how to be a lady and taught me my worth. Mom had me in church every Sunday and introduced me to Jesus Christ, our Savior, and instilled in me to have a heart for others. Thank you, Mom, for loving me. Truly a blessed Woman of God! Happy Mother’s Day!! – Valerie Faulcon

An elderly woman with curly hair, wearing glasses and a blue top, smiling while seated on a couch.
An elderly woman sitting on a chair wearing glasses, a black top, and a red apron with white patterns, in a room with a wooden table and a decoration on the wall.

Mary Elizabeth (Story) Carter – Courtland, VA

This Mother’s Day, I honor the memory of my mother. Youngest daughter of Addie V. (Barnes) Story. Entering this world January 1925, she was the Matriarch of our family. Her love, faith and dedication for her family were unwavering. She leaves a legacy of love that continues to live on in our family and in our hearts for generations to come. – Annette M. McCloud – Virginia Beach, Virginia

Addie V. (Barnes) Story – Courtland, VA

This Mother’s Day, I honor the memory of my grandmother, Mrs. Addie V. (Barnes) Story, who was born in Courtland, Virginia, in January 1896. She lived a life defined by dedication, strength, humility, and unwavering determination. A hardworking housekeeper and tireless farm worker, she devoted herself fully to her family while raising seven children and a granddaughter. Although the time I spent with her was very short, it was deeply meaningful and remains vividly etched in my memory. – Sandy A. (Carter) Perry-Bey – Virginia Beach, Virginia

A smiling woman in a patterned dress and necklace poses in front of a wooden cabinet.
An older woman smiling, wearing a green embellished dress, with short curly hair, standing in front of a light green textured background.

Sharon Green

Mom, thank you for being my best friend, model, and a light to everyone you meet! – Sharese Green

Juanita Redman – Silver Spring, MD

Mom, I miss you SO much everyday!!! Always so caring and giving to everyone—And your love, encouragement, and support all my life, will FOREVER be in my heart.💜

Brenda Redman

A vintage portrait of two women seated together, one wearing a purple outfit and the other in a green outfit, both with styled hair and serious expressions.
A collage of four images featuring a woman sitting in a brown chair, wearing a white blouse, smiling, with curly hair. The first image shows her with a man standing behind her, both posing against a green background. The second image is a close-up of the woman's face. The third image puts emphasis on the woman alone in the chair. The fourth image features the man behind the woman again.

Great Grandma Roxie Lettie Pauline Stith, and sister Mammie Stith – Mars Hill Baptist Church, Capron, VA

In Loving Memory. Gone But Not Forgotten – Joseph Barnes

Valerie Faulcon – Savannah, GA

Growing up, I watched my mother, Valerie, carry herself with the same strength, grace, and compassion that she learned from growing up in Courtland, Virginia. The values she learned in Southampton County stayed with her throughout every stage of life and became the foundation of the love she poured into our family. She has always been a devoted mother and grandmother whose greatest happiness comes from spending time with the people she loves most. I’ve been blessed to experience her unconditional love, support, and steady presence firsthand. The joy she finds in her family is a true reflection of the beautiful heart she has always had. – Kenny Fullwood 

A smiling couple poses for a photo indoors, dressed elegantly. The man wears a gray suit and light pink shirt, while the woman is in a pink dress with ruffles and a matching cape, accessorized with silver heels.
A portrait of a woman with long dark hair, wearing a brown coat over a light blue shirt, set against a background of flowers.

Jackie Barnes – Capron, VA

Happy Mothers Day to Jackie Barnes, the one who keeps us on our toes and makes us stop and think twice about everything we say! You have been a blessing to your children and grandchildren. We couldn’t do this thing called life without you. Thank you for your love, your wisdom, and your willingness to listen. Not everyone is as fortunate as we are, and we love you! – Love, Shaunte & Andre

Beatrice Barnes Lamison – Capron VA

“The strongest man you will ever meet is a first born daughter” unknown 

Honoring my mother this Mother’s Day, Beatrice Barnes Lamison (RIP), Capron Va.

In just fourteen years, she gave birth to twelve children, while enduring the heartbreak of three miscarriages along the way. Though she had little material wealth to offer, she poured into her children something far greater: encouragement, discipline, vision, and unwavering belief in who we could become.

Because of her determination and sacrifice, that vision blossomed into six bachelor’s degrees and five master’s degrees and a career in the mattress industry and two 20 year veterans (Army) among her children. Even after suffering a stroke at the young age of forty, she never lost focus on her family or her purpose. Her strength was not loud, but steady as an oak rooted deep through every storm. She remains the strongest woman I have ever known, and her legacy lives on through every child she nurtured, prayed for, and inspired🌷Leatha Lamison-White

A smiling woman with curly hair wearing a blue blazer and a black top, posing outdoors with plants and brick in the background.
An elderly woman wearing an elegant all-white outfit with a floral hat and glasses, holding a small handbag.

 Leatha Lamison-White – Moseley, Virginia

Happy 73rd birthday and a beautiful Mother’s Day from your sons. Your love, steady, unwavering, and quietly powerful, has been our shelter through every season, shaping the very foundation of who we’ve become. Because of you, we learned to give without keeping score and to love without limits, and even now your wisdom continues to steady our steps and lift our hearts. Today and always, we hope you feel celebrated for the remarkable woman and mother you are, honored, cherished, and deeply loved by the sons whose lives you built.– Darren Lamison-White & Eric Lamison-White

Edna Lamison Goodman – Suffolk, VA

Living in Suffolk, Va, Edna Elizabeth Lamison Goodman, the eldest grandchild of Langston and Rhea Mae Blow Barnes and the firstborn child of Beatrice Barnes Lamison, has long stood as a pillar of strength, faith, and family devotion. Her deep commitment to both her immediate and extended family has been beautifully demonstrated through her tireless efforts to unite generations through family reunions, some of which she and her husband, Carey Leon Goodman organized and funded personally.

A devoted mother to Earl and Melyssa Goodman, and proud grandmother to Latreisha Goodman and Earl Goodman Jr., she has dedicated her life to nurturing her family while faithfully serving God and her community. Even at 85 years old, her work ethic and servant’s heart remain extraordinary, as she continues to work 45 hours each week while also serving faithfully as a deacon, missionary, and choir member at Metropolitan Baptist Church.

Edna Elizabeth Lamison Goodman exemplifies resilience, grace, discipline, and unwavering faith. She is, without question, one of the strongest and most inspiring women I have ever known. – Leatha Lamison-White

A smiling woman with long black hair and a blue shirt, captured indoors with wooden beams and greenery in the background.
Portrait of a woman with dark, curly hair smiling against a blue background.

 Lisa Turner

Lisa, I thank God for the blessing you have been in my life. You have stood beside me with love, patience, encouragement, and a kind heart through so many seasons. Your presence brings comfort, and your loyalty has never wavered. The bond we share means more to me than words can fully express. Whenever I sing “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” I think about the grace of God and the beautiful people He places in our lives, and you are certainly one of them. Thank you for always being there for me and for so many others. I love you dearly and celebrate you today with all my heart. – Reverend Rose Askew

Reverend Rose Askew – Murfreesboro, North Carolina

Reverend Rose Askew has spent a lifetime pouring faith, love, and encouragement into everyone around her. No matter where life has taken her, the values based in Courtland, Virginia and Murfreesboro, North Carolina have remained close to her heart and evident in the way she serves others. Through preaching, praying, singing, and simply showing up for people, she continues to be a steady source of wisdom, compassion, and strength for her family and community. Her life reflects quiet resilience, deep faith, and a servant’s heart that continues to inspire generations. Today, we celebrate Reverend Rose Askew and the lasting impact of her love, guidance, and unwavering spirit. – The Barnes Blow Family

A group of eight diverse individuals posing together with smiles, standing in a casual setting. They are dressed in a mix of casual attire, with some wearing graphic t-shirts and hoodies. The backdrop appears to be a textured wall.
An elderly woman wearing a bright red coat and matching hat, smiling warmly while holding a cane. She stands in a kitchen with a black refrigerator in the background.

Shaunte Chappell, Joy Phelps, Denise Barnes Dotson, Cassie Beamon

On this special Mother’s Day 2026, we proudly honor and celebrate four extraordinary women, Joy Phelps, Shaunte Chappell, Cassie Beamon, and Denise Barnes Dotson, beloved granddaughters of Lewis and Roxie Wynn Barnes. Each of you
reflects the strength, grace, compassion, and love that have always been part of our family legacy. – Your Uncles Bob, Elisha, Roger, and Scotty

Queen Blow Wynn

Today, with hearts filled with love, gratitude, and cherished memories, we lovingly honor the beautiful life and legacy of our beloved grandmother, Queen Blow Wynn.
Love, faith, kindness, and quiet strength were the trademarks of her life. She carried herself with dignity, compassion, and grace, touching the hearts of everyone blessed to know her. Her gentle spirit and unwavering devotion to family created a
foundation that continues to guide generations today. She believed deeply in prayer, family unity, and treating people with kindness and respect. Her life was a testimony of Christian love in action. – Your Grandchildren

A decorative design featuring the name 'Diane Harrell' in elegant typography, surrounded by roses and floral accents on a soft pastel background.
A tribute image featuring the text 'In Loving Honor of Mary Alice Barnes' surrounded by soft pink roses and delicate white flowers on a pastel background.

Diane Harrell – Pendleton, NC

Some people have a way of making others feel cared for the moment they walk into a room, and Diane Harrell has always carried that gift naturally. Her kindness is steady, her spirit is genuine, and the love she shows her family never feels forced or performative. The bond she shares with her Aunt Rose Askew is based on years of closeness, faith, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Diane leads with compassion, always ready to encourage, help, or simply be present when someone needs her. Today, we celebrate the warmth, grace, and quiet strength that make Diane such a treasured part of the family. Reverend Rose Askew

Mary Alice Barnes

Mary Alice Barnes was such a gentle soul. Family meant everything to her, and she showed her love through encouragement, thoughtfulness, and simply being there when people needed her. She and her first cousin, Rose Askew, shared years of closeness and family memories that continue to live on through generations. Although she is dearly missed, the love Mary Alice gave so freely still lingers in the hearts of those who knew her. Her memory remains a lasting reflection of grace and genuine care for others.- Cousin Rose Askew

A woman with curly gray hair, wearing an orange poncho with blue designs, stands outside a brick building on a sunny day, holding a beige bag.
A portrait of a smiling elderly woman with white hair, wearing a blue blazer and a floral corsage, with text commemorating her life and achievements.

Lillie B. Barnes – Courtland, VA

A loving and wise wife, mother, grandmother, trusted friend, and devoted church family member, she represents the very heart of compassion, strength, and grace. Her presence has a way of making life’s journey better, gentler, and more meaningful for everyone blessed to know her. Reverend Rose Askew

Helen Bates – Bowie, MD

🦋 – Yvette Bates

A side-by-side comparison of two photographs: the left features a young woman with curly hair smiling, while the right shows an older woman with glasses and curly hair, both exuding warmth.
An older woman with short, curly hair wearing a white sleeveless dress, standing outdoors with a grassy area and parked cars in the background.

Darling Barnes – Emporia, Virginia

I am Darling Michelle Barnes. My husband is Rev. Rogers Barnes. My dear mother was Dorothy Mae Ferguson Powell, from Emporia, Virginia. Mom was an incredible mother who managed to be loving, kind, and dedicated as she raised me and my siblings after our father’s early passing. She was a trailblazer in her 20’s. She was a statuesque actual fashion model during the 1930s. The early picture is Mom as a beautiful model, the later picture is of my mom, as a beautiful mother and grandmother. Darling Barnes

Rosa Barnes

Rosa Barnes has dedicated much of her life to caring for others, both through her work in mental health services and through the quiet ways she shows up for the people she loves. As the granddaughter of John Wesley Barnes, she carries a deep connection to Courtland, Virginia and the enduring legacy of the Barnes family. Those who know Rosa know her as someone with a calm spirit, a listening ear, and a heart that naturally makes people feel supported. She has touched many lives through her patience, compassion, and genuine concern for others. Her presence leaves a lasting impression, and the love she gives continues to ripple through family, friends, and community alike. – The Barnes Blow Family

A floral tribute design featuring pink roses and greenery, with the text 'In Loving Honor of Jessie Mae Owes Stith' elegantly displayed in the center.
A decorative graphic featuring the text 'Aunt Esmond Bryant Owes Lambert' surrounded by pink and red roses and floral accents against a soft, pastel background.

Jessie Mae Owes Stith

Jessie Mae was the steady heart of the family — a woman whose spirit, caring, and strength spoke louder than any sermon. She loved fiercely and stood firmly. She loved with intention, worked with dignity, and carried her family with a grace that made the hard days bearable and the good days shine brighter. Her wisdom and sense of humor was gentle, her faith unwavering, and her love remains a foundation beneath every generation that follows her. Elwood Stith

Aunt Esmond Bryant Owes Lambert

Aunt Esmond brought warmth wherever she went. She had a way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. She was the storyteller, the encourager, the one who could lift a room with her presence. Her kindness was not soft — it was strong, steady, and rooted in a deep sense of family. – Elwood Stith

A decorative image featuring the text 'Aunt Eunice Maria Owes Wyche' surrounded by pink and red roses and floral elements on a soft background.
A decorative tribute featuring pink and white roses with the name 'Cousin Dorothy "Tillie" Ford Turner' elegantly displayed in the center.

Aunt Eunice Maria Owes Wyche

Aunt Eunice carried a spirit that was both joyful and wise. Her faith was lived out in the way she cared, the way she spoke life into others, and the way she held her family close. She lived her life as a giver, a helper, and a woman who understood the power of showing up for others. Her legacy is one of compassion, courage, and deep, abiding love. Elwood Stith

Cousin Dorothy “Tillie” Ford Turner

Tillie was the spark — full of life, laughter, and a strength that came from knowing who she was and whose she was. Her presence brought joy, and her memory brings gratitude. She is remembered not only for what she did, but for the light she carried.

On this Mother’s Day, we honor these women — Jessie Mae, Esmond, Eunice, and Tillie — not only for the roles they held, but for the lives they lived. They were mothers, sisters, aunts, cousins, and friends, but they were also pillars: women who prayed, worked, loved, and endured. – Elwood Stith

A collage of four photos featuring a smiling woman with short hair and glasses, showcasing her in different settings and outfits.
A smiling woman with long hair in a natural setting, looking happy.

Margaret Powell – My Mother, Chesapeake, VA, Nellie Silver – Aunt, Chesapeake, VA, Alice Godley – Aunt, Newport News, VA

Margaret Powell, my mother, whom I affectionately call Mama, has truly shaped my life. She brought me into this world by the grace of God, and has loved on me ever since. She has been a constant source of strength and support, and I am deeply blessed to now have the honor of serving and caring for her in return.


Nellie Silver, my Aunt-Mama #1, has been both a provider and protector throughout my life. I will never forget the sacrifice she made when she moved out of state to live in my home and help care for my daughter during the first years of her life. She has always stood firmly in my corner, and my gratitude for her love and support is beyond words.

Alice Godley, my Aunt-Mama #2, has guided and loved me all my life. She cared for me as a baby and has continued to support, encourage, and shower me with love through every season of life. Her presence has always been a blessing, and I will forever be grateful for her unwavering love and care.

These three women are incredibly special to me. Together, they are affectionately known as “The Triplets.” They are three remarkable women who love God and cherish their family more than words can express. Today on Mother’s Day — and every day — they deserve to be honored, celebrated, and deeply appreciated. – Becky Rice

Isabel Corrales – West Palm Beach, FL

Migrated to Queens, New York, now lives in West Palm Beach, FL.
Mother of Andres and Frank Verney
Enjoys working, traveling, dancing, hiking, horse back riding and went skydiving at 75 yo.
Lives life to the fullest every day. – Andres Verney

Happy Mother’s Day to all.

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