Honorees - MOM Foundation Inc

Billie Jean Johnson -- Mother of the Month December 2025 --
Grew up in Kingstree, SC received my education in the public schools of Williamsburg County and was a proud graduate of Tomlinson High School.
Moved to New York and went to Royal Business School. While there I worked for Nabisco and Thomson McKinnon a Wall Street brokerage firm. Lived in Brooklyn, NY for 20+ years.
Moved to Atlanta, GA in 1989. After moving to Atlanta, I visited several churches before becoming a member of First Iconium Baptist Church. Worked various jobs in Atlanta before retiring.
Enjoy movie night and playing games with my son and grandchildren.
Psalm 34:3
O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.
Deacon Ann Jones – Mother of the Month November 2025 – I am a dedicated wife, matriarch, and mother of four children, eleven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Family is at the center of my world. I love nothing more than spending quality time with my Family. When I’m not with Family, I enjoy traveling and discovering new destinations.
My preferred Biblical scripture: Proverbs 31
Gloria Brown – Mother of the Month of October 2025 - I am a native Floridian, born in Tallahassee, Florida on October 1, 1951. I came to Atlanta GA in March 1973 when Maynard Jackson became our First Black Mayor. I attended Leon High School during integration from1967 and graduated in June 1969. I continued my educational journey for two years at Tallahassee State College. My goal was to complete the remaining years at Georgia State University to receive my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
I retired from HCA Healthcare in 2013, after which I developed a passion for seniors 55 and older for life after retirement. In August 2014, I organized and coordinated TPC Active Seniors Ministry at the church I attended - The Purpose Church. My mission was to reach out to seniors in DeKalb County, addressing relevant issues, doing fun activities, and educational agendas as well. I felt a need to broaden my horizon and joined in partnership with Redan-Trotti Library in Lithonia and the following year at Scott Candler in Decatur. During this time, I returned back to the workforce at DeKalb County Board of Health in 2017. I was faithfully serving the community until the pandemic hit in 2020 and retired from the Board of Health in December 2023. A few years later, I found my passion and my purpose at Solid Foundation Christian Academy - a private school for special needs, where I currently work.
I am a born-again Believer, a Disciple for Christ at Stronghold Church in Lithonia GA, under the leadership of Bishop Elect R. Benjamin Gaither & First Lady Tonya Gaither. I found that God has a Purpose for my life. I am currently a part of The 21st Century Customer Service Ministry where I greet everyone who comes in the front entrance on each Sunday with a Holy Kiss. (2 Corinthians 13:12) I continue to walk in my Purpose of the Gift of Helps, Gift of Encouragement, and the Gift of a Smile that comes straight from Heaven.
Lillie Cousin Stevens – Mother of the Month of September 2025 – I was born Lillie Maude Cousin on September 14, 1941, in Georgia. I am a remarkable matriarch whose life story reflects resilience and love. Growing up in a single-parent household, I was raised by my dedicated mother, with my one sister. Despite the challenges of being part of a small family, my childhood was filled with joy and cherished memories. Each year, my family would visit the countryside, staying on my grandmother's farm, a time I fondly remember for the warmth and comfort it provided. One of my happiest childhood memories involves making biscuits alongside my grandmother, an experience that has stayed with me throughout my life.
I attended Washington High School, where I navigated the ups and downs of adolescence. Although I faced interruptions in my education, my determination to succeed later led me to graduate from high school alongside my two oldest children. This achievement remains one of my proudest moments, symbolizing my commitment to education and family.
I am the proud mother of six children—Eddie, Chandra, Rhonda, Valeria, Linda, and Kelly—having faced the heartache of losing one child. Raising my children is one of the most fulfilling journeys of my life, filled with love and memorable experiences. My nurturing spirit extends beyond my own children. I embrace the role of grandmother to 18 grandchildren and great-grandmother to 38 great-grandchildren, as well as three great-great-grandchildren. Each addition to my family brings me immense joy, creating a legacy that emphasizes the importance of family bonds.
As a beloved matriarch, I hope to start a new family tradition of gathering every Christmas, bringing my extensive family together to celebrate the love and connections that define them.
My life is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the importance of family. Through my experiences, I built a rich legacy that continues to inspire and connect my loved ones, reminding them of the joy found in shared moments and cherished memories.
My favorite scripture: "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline." (1 Timothy 1:7)
Reverend Diane H. White – Mother of the Month August 2025 – I was born on August 13, 1949 to the late Frank and Clifford Mae Rozier. I attended E.A. Ware Elementary School and graduated Booker T. Washington High School, both in Atlanta, GA. I later graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Religion from the Interdenominational Theological College (ITC) in Atlanta. I am a faithful and dedicated member of the Fountain of Faith Missionary Baptist Church where I serve on the Homeless Ministry. Reverend Reginal B. Newman is my Pastor.
I was married to the love of my life, the late Randolph White, for more than 30 years. I have two sons – Aaron and James McGruder.
I love to sing. I sing in five choirs: Georgia Mass Choir, James Cleveland Choir, KP & Company, The Minister’s Choir, and the Atlanta Chapter Choir.
I have been a longtime fan of the Atlanta Falcons Dirty Birds (Rise Up) Nation for more than 30 years.
Most importantly, I am a Child of God, serving my Master with Gladness!!
My favorite scripture: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9 – KJV)
Karol Neville – Mother of the Month of July 2025 - In 1985, my husband, Ted, and I were married. We have had a good marriage. The Lord did not bless us with our own children, but the Lord has placed young people in our path who needed some love, understanding, and guidance.
I had 48 years of federal service of which 47+ years were in the Land Resources Division, National Park Service. Our division was the real estate office that bought the land for the National Parks once they were established by the U.S. Congress.
I first met Deborah Copeland in 1979 when she worked in the Land Resources Division. She sang a song at our wedding and also caught the bouquet. At my 60th birthday party she sang the song "One Day At a Time". Our friendship has remained throughout the years.
I love taking pictures of nature including flowers, trees, sunsets, and also people and animals. We have two Chihuahua dogs that provide a lot of enjoyment. Since I was 18, I have loved playing the piano, organ and keyboard at church. I now play the keyboard part time for church. I enjoy sending texts to people who need a word of encouragement.
My favorite scripture is "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified . . for the Lord your God goes before you; He will never leave you nor forsake you." (Deuteronomy 31:6)
Stephanie Braswell -- Mother of the Month June 2025 --
I was born in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1956. I attended Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary School (school #64) in Indiana and graduated from Manual High School in 1974. I graduated from Ball State University in 1978 with a BS in Psychology. I also graduated from University of Pittsburg in Pittsburg, Kansas in 1981 with a Master's degree in Psychology. I moved to Georgia in 1986 for better job opportunities. I met my now husband in Georgia in 1992. I am now retired and enjoying time with my two children and three grandchildren. In high school I played basketball and volleyball. I also played volleyball in college at the University of Evansville in Evansville, Indiana after I graduated from high school. In my past time I like to watch the Indiana Pacers for basketball and the Indianapolis Colts for football. I also like to go bowling.
Bible verse: Mathew 5, Verse 8 -
“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.”
Barnetta J. Young, M.S., LPC – Mother of the Month of May 2025 - Born in Port Royal, SC and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I am a woman whose life story is a testament to perseverance, faith, and service. At 73 years old, I reflect on a remarkable journey defined by resilience, love, and purpose. I am the proud mother of three children, grandmother to twenty-eight, and great-grandmother to fourteen. I was blessed to share 40 years of marriage with my soulmate, Herbert H. Young, until his passing—a bond grounded in deep love, mutual respect, and unwavering faith in God.
My academic and professional journey reflects my extraordinary determination. Once a high-school dropout, I defied the odds to become a college graduate with honors at every level. I earned my Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees with a perfect 4.0 GPA, proving that dedication and faith can transform any beginning into a triumph.
As the second oldest of eight siblings, I learned early the value of responsibility, compassion, and leadership—traits that later shaped my calling as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I began my career at Peachford Behavioral Health, where my devotion to patients earned me the Peach Star Award for outstanding service and commitment. Driven by a passion to make a broader impact, I went on to co-found and co-own One Step Counseling Center, where I faithfully served individuals and families for over 21 years.
With more than 27 years in the field of mental health, I continue to inspire those around me—clients, colleagues, and community members alike. My life is a living example of growth through perseverance and purpose through service.
Outside of my professional life, I find joy and peace in crocheting and crafting, creative outlets that allow me to express my artistry and bring warmth to those I love. Through every season of life, I lean on my faith in God when times get hard, drawing strength, guidance, and comfort from my deep spiritual foundation. Whether I am designing a handmade piece, guiding a client toward healing, or spending time with my large and loving family, I embody the power of hope, healing, and hard work.
Annie G. Ponder -- Mother of the Month June 2025 -- born in Coweta county on April 29, 1942, has eight children and lives in College Park, Georgia. As a member of First Missionary Baptist Church under Bishop C.L.Carter, Sr. she has sung with the Mass Choir and currently serves on the Mother's Ministry. Mother Ponder retired from the Board of Education. She loves giving and sharing. She is a family person who loves her friends. Mother Ponder is 83 years old, she loves cooking, and her favorite song is by CeCe Winans: "The Goodness of God." Her favorite scripture is Psalms 121:1-2.
Mother Easter Mary Blackman -- Mother of the Month March 2025 --
Age 93 was born and raised in New Orleans, La. Mother Blackman was the eldest of 12 siblings and embraced that role with love and responsibility and cared for them by cooking, cleaning, combing hair and teaching herself how to sew without a pattern and made clothing for herself and her sisters. Mother Blackman was blessed with 6 biological children but yet she opened her home to many others, raising them as her own. She grew up in the Church of God and Christ (COGIC) household and devoted her life to the church. At just 48 years old, she was appointed as the youngest church mother at St. Bernard COGIC where she also raised her children in the faith and traveled by car with them annually to the International (Memphis), UNAC conventions, and many church events also always bringing along the other children she lovingly cared for. A gifted vocalist, she sang 1st soprano in the church choirs, performed in singing groups, and participated in talent shows.
A natural entrepreneur, Mother Blackman earned her cosmetology license, and in her early 30s became part owner of two beauty salons. The first, The House of Wigs, affectionately known city wide as “The Wig Lady,” as her husband, Deacon Blackman, helped deliver wigs to clients. The second, The Looking Glass, served the community for over 40 years. There, countless people entrusted her with their hair for special occasions and even for funerals, an honor she handled with care.
Her journey brought her to Atlanta after Hurricane Katrina, and even in her 70s she continued her faithful service as a Mother and an active member of The Greater Community COGIC. She's a Grandmother of 11, Great Grandmother of 9 and Great Great Grandmother of 5. Giving and forgiving like Christ, she generously shares whatever she has, often giving her very last dime without hesitation.
Mother Easter Mary Blackman has lived a life marked by service, generosity, creativity, unshakable faith and let us not forget her stylish ways of dressing. Her legacy of love continues through her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, and all the lives she touched along the way.
Pastor Doris A. Waller -- Mother of the Month Feb 2025 --

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13

As the third child and baby girl of the late Ralph Waller and the late Mother Laura Tommass, I was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on February 14, 1948. And yes, I am a Valentine baby.
In 1970, while employed with the Bell of PA Telephone Company, I transferred to Syracuse, New York and then later relocated to Atlanta, Georgia in 1977 where I united with the Shiloh Baptist Church in College Park.
On May 28, 1989, while under the leadership and guidance of Pastor C. L. Carter, Sr., I accepted
my calling into the ministry. I was later licensed to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ on July 8, 1990. Because of my faithfulness of that of another, I was ordained on May 22, 1994. After attending the Carter Theological Institute of Ministry, I received an Associate Degree in Pulpit Ministry and have also received several certificates in Biblical Studies and Administration from the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship School of Ministry and the United Covenant Churches of Christ. On August 24, 2025, I was appointed as Pastor of Administration by Bishop C. L. Carter, Sr.
I have three girls who have grown into three beautiful and wonderful young ladies of the Most
High God. God saw fit to add to our family two son-n-laws and seven awesome grandchildren: three boys and four girls.
I am the founder of Helping Hands Ministry, where the mission statement simply says, "Where we give a hand up and not just a hand out." I am a certified mentor for the "One Church One Inmate Program" and a contributing author of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship Administrative Handbook. My work in the community has been with the Bread for Days Ministry, Family Life Restoration Center, Helping Hands Christmas Holiday Dinner and By Faith Global Ministries Annual “Unity in the Community” held in the Mississippi Delta. My resume can be simply summed up in Matthew 25:31-40.
Currently I am the Executive Assistant for Bishop C. L. Carter, Sr. and have served him in that
capacity for over forty years. At First Missionary, I am a faithful member of the Mother's Ministry, serve as a Sunday Enrichment Hour Teacher, Ministerial Ministry, Director of Protocol, Advisor for the Youth Ministry and NuVision Young Adult Ministry and Coordinator of the Ministry of Excellence Training Class where I am involved in the teaching and training of Ministers and Elders.
My favorite scriptures are Psalm 51 and Matthew 25:31-40. My mottos are "Let the works I do
speak for me" and "If I can help someone, then my living is not in vain." My goal is to be a "faithful servant" of the Lord and to be all that HE would have me to be. And then one day hearing His voice say, "Well done thou good and faithful servant!"

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Psalm 119: 105
Anne Mitchell – Mother of the Month - December 2024 -- First of all, I would like to thank the MOM Foundation, Inc. for honoring me in the month of December.
I am a native of Atlanta, Georgia and was born on December 19, 1941 at Grady Hospital (Grady Baby). I grew up in the Forth Ward community where I graduated from David T. Howard High School. I held a job as a waitress for years. I later retired after 11 years as a Custodian for Atlanta Public Schools! I have one daughter - Candace Katrina Ingram.
I am a faithful member of First Iconium Baptist Church in Atlanta. They call me the Candy Lady because I give out candy treats to everyone after church. I love to work in my church. At First Iconium, I serve in various organizations: The Mothers’ Board; The Silver Jubilee (Seniors group); The Pastor’s Aide Committee; Hospitality Committee; Nurses Guild; and Usher Board No. 2. There is nothing better than working for the Lord.
Most of my life I have been a caregiver/CNA, sitting and taking care of the sick. I am drawn to people and I want to help take care of them. I believe this is my talent from the Lord.
Favorite Bible scripture: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2 NIV)
Lucy A. Moss – Mother of the Month – November 2024 – First of all, I would like to thank God for blessing me all these years. Thank Him for keeping me, my family, and friends safe because if it had not been for Him, where would we be?
I am a member of First Iconium Baptist Church in Atlanta. I serve on the Hospitality Committee, November Birth Month Club, and the Silver Jubilees.
I love going on trips and cooking for my family and friends. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Thank you, God!

My Favorite Scripture: “I will lift mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved; He that keepeth thee will not slumber.” (Psalm 121:1-3 KJV)
Elizabeth Starr – Mother of the Month October 2024 – I have been a faithful member of Mt. Ephraim Baptist Church in Atlanta for more than 30 years until my recent relocation to live with my daughter in Maryland. I was a member of the Senior Usher Board and Cancer Ministry. I provided food for the homeless in and around the Atlanta area throughout the past 30 years. I participated in many of the MOM Foundation activities.
I am always willing to give a helping hand to those in need.

Favorite Scripture: “I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvelous works.” (Psalm 9:1 KJV)
Jessie Carmichael – Mother of the Month September 2024 -- I was born in Hampton, Georgia in 1938 to my beloved mother, Wilmer Blalock. I was married to Eugene Carmichael until his passing on February 28, 2000. I have three children (2 boys and 1 girl), five grandchildren, and six great-grands. Prior to retiring in 2003, I worked at Henry Medical Center in the business office for over 15 years.
I was a member of Zion Baptist Church in Hampton Georgia where I was the Vice President of the choir for 25 years. After moving to Atlanta, I joined First Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Bishop C. L. Carter, Sr. Prior to my current role as the Vice President of the Mothers Ministry, I used my voice in the choir.
For fun, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends as well as watching sports. While baseball is my favorite, GO BRAVES, I love my Falcons.
My favorite scripture: “Praise ye the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in the firmament of his power. Praise him for his mighty acts; praise him according to his excellent greatness. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet; praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals; praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let ever thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 150 KJV)
PRAISE THE LORD.
Lady Patricia Moore – Mother of the Month August 2024 -- I was born and raised in Thomasville, Georgia. I went to Douglass High School. After finishing high school, I worked at Susan H. Dunlap Elementary School as a Librarian Assistant. I later moved to Los Angeles, California and worked at Wells Fargo Bank for many years. I eventually decided to move to Atlanta, Georgia where I worked for Nations Bank for a couple of years. God gave me a great gift working with children, so I decided to attend the Child Day Care Professional Career Development Institute and received my Diploma on March 2, 2006. Now, I have a Home Daycare. I enjoy loving on and working with children. I'm a member of First Missionary Baptist Church College Park, GA where Bishop C. L. Carter, Sr. is the Pastor. I currently serve as the Assistant Youth Director and sing in the Kingdom Praise Choir. I truly love the Lord for Blessing me with a Wonderful Gift.
Elder Jean Strozier – Mother of the Month July 2024 -- I was born on July 2, 1943 in Atlanta, GA in the Dixie Hills Community. I attended Turner High School and Booker T. Washington High School in Atlanta from which I later graduated. I worked several jobs and then found myself back at Washington High as an employee and retired from there in 2001. I have two children, Keisha and Bernard, of which I am very proud of. I also have four grands and eleven great-grands. I have been a member of First Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta for the past 42 years and my pastor is Bishop C. L. Carter, Sr. I have served as a Sunday School Teacher, worked with the Youth Ministry and gladly served as a Senior Usher. I enjoy music, reading, cooking, traveling, serving and helping others. My favorite scriptures: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust; his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness, nor for the destruction that waseth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand, but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thin eyes shalt though behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread up the lion and adder; the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.” (Psalms 91:1-16 KJV)“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV) To God Be The Glory!
Catherine Elaine Watson – Mother of the Month June 2024 - I was born at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, GA on June 20, 1950. I graduated from Washington High School in 1968. I married Dock William Watson on June 17, 1971 and we are still together! We had two beautiful children: Benjamin Maurice Watson and Lisa Elaine Watson. I have four grandchildren and three great grands. When my sister and I were coming up, we had everything we needed; not what we wanted, but what we needed. Sometimes, we got what we wanted. My favorite scripture: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want, He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me besides the still waters. He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” (Psalms 23 KJV)
Cornelia Miller – Mother of the Month May 2024 - I was born in Vienna, GA. My grandmother raised me until I was in the 5th grade. Shortly thereafter, I went to live with my mother in St. Augustine, FL. I graduated from R.J. Murray High School in 1964. That same year, I marched with the Civil Rights Movement along with very well-known Civil Rights Activists, namely Rev. Willie Bolden, Hosea Williams, and Rev. Andrew Young.
After leaving St. Augustine, I came to Atlanta to be with family. I studied Nursing at Atlanta Area Technical School. I currently reside in Atlanta. I love going to theatre productions, cooking, and spending time with my family.
I am a member and faithful servant of First Iconium Baptist Church for the past 37 years. I love my Pastor, Rev. Timothy McDonald. I currently serve on the Mother's Board, the Silver Jubilee Ministry, and the Nurse's Guild (not active, but still acknowledged). This is my story, and much more to come on this future Christian journey.

Favorite Scripture: “I will lift mine eyes to the hill from which cometh my help.” (Psalm 121.1)
Hazel King – Mother of the Month April 2024 -- I am 90 years old, born April 4, 1934 in Barbados. When I graduated from high school, I went to England to complete my nursing residency. In the early 1980s, I moved to New York working as a nurse until retirement. Upon retirement, I returned to live in Barbados.
I am the mother three children, two boys and a girl. In May of 2023, I became a widow of my second husband of 30 years. I currently live in Atlanta, Georgia with my youngest son.
Favorite scripture: “He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3 KJV)
Elder Johnnie Mae Williams – Mother of the Month March 2024 -- I was born in McRae, GA on March 22, 1938 to the late Lula and Ed McRae. I am the youngest of 13 siblings. After graduating high school and college in McRae, I married my late husband Frank Williams Jr. on July 27, 1956 in the city of McRae GA. We then moved to Miami, Florida for 5 years while pursuing my career as a cosmetologist at the La Belle Beauty School. I returned to Utica, NY to purse my career in Master Cosmetologist. After perfecting and mastering my craft, we relocated to Watertown, NY. There I opened up the first black salon in Watertown! It was history ever since. I then moved to Atlanta, GA and pursued my career further. There, I found my church home at First Missionary Baptist Church in College Park, GA where I became an Elder under the leadership of Bishop C. L. Carter, Sr. and First Lady Deborah V. Carter. I am so happy and grateful for being a part of this Church Family!I am the mother of 7 children, 5 boys and 2 girls. I also have 11 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and 17 great-great grands. My Favorite Scripture: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved; he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil; he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and they coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.” (Psalms 121:1-8 – KJV)
Howanda Walker -- Mother of the Month February 2024 -- I am a native of the Sunshine State of Florida. I moved to Atlanta in 1977. My move was to be temporary while my youngest sister was in the Army at Fort McPherson, in S.W. Atlanta. I soon ended up getting a job as a Bindery Specialist with an AT&T contractor responsible for printing telephone books. I retired after 30 years. It has been 47 years now, and I am still in Atlanta; however, I remain a “Sunshine Girl” and a proud Miami Dolphins football fan.
I am a member of Ben Hill United Methodist Church in Atlanta. When I am home in Florida, I worship with family and friends at Pleasant Grove A.M.E. Church where I grew up.
I joined the MOM Foundation as a Volunteer in 2017. It has been a very rewarding and gratifying experience.

My favorite scripture is “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Psalm 30:5 (KJV)
Lena Gleaton -- Mother of the Month January 2024 --Lena Gleaton was born on January 13, 1935 to the late Thelma Arnold and Lee J. Dean. At the age of 10 years old, Lena was baptized at Iconium Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA. She graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1952. Lena continued her education at Carver Vocational School concentrating in clerical studies; and, later graduating from Monsa Beauty School. Lena served in the United States military from 1956 to 1959 as a Medic. She attained the rank of Sergeant within 18 months. Upon leaving the military, she worked as a civilian LPN at Fort McPherson, GA for 27 years. After her tenure at Fort McPherson, she worked as a Healthcare Provider with Menders Health Agency for 14 years. Lena was an active participant in the charter that established First Iconium Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Timothy McDonald, III. She was instrumental in forming the Nurses Guild where she served for 20 years. She is currently a member of First Iconium’s Mothers Board.
Shirley Cleveland Butler -- Mother of the Month December 2023 -- I was born and raised in Atlanta and am a graduate of Paine College in Augusta, Georgia. I am a retired educator with the Fulton County Board of Education. I aspired to be a teacher because I wanted the opportunity to make a difference in children’s lives and have a positive impact on my community. I began my teaching career as a first grade teacher at Mimosa Elementary School in Roswell, Georgia and taught school for 33 years. My greatest reward in teaching was assisting my young students with learning and seeing them achieve their goals and be successful. I am a charter member of First Iconium Baptist Church where I am presently affiliated with the Mother's Board, Pastor's Aide, EDGE Youth Ministry, and the Silver Jubilees. I enjoy reading, listening to music, and love to shop. I am the proud mother of one daughter, Judge Rolesia Butler Dancy.

My favorite Bible verse is: “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:6.
Ella M. Parker -- Mother of the Month November 2023 -- I was born in Birmingham, Alabama on November 20, 1948. I graduated high school and Booker T. Washington Business College. In 1968, I married Bennie Parker. We have one daughter and three grandchildren. I worked for 27 years at Wachovia Bank (presently “Wells Fargo Bank) and Sedwick Insurance Company for 10 years as a Claims Assistant. I have always been the type to try and help someone else. I was a former member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church for about 25 to 30 years. I served in the choir, and became a Deaconess. We would always help the older ones who became sick. We would clean their homes and prepare meals, as needed. I took this one lady under my wings. She hardly had any family. We would bring her home with us. Oftentimes, she would go to one of the bedrooms and take a nap. You see, she was just a very lonely person. My family and I are presently members of First Iconium Baptist Church, where I serve on the Mother’s Board, and I also serve as a member of the November Birth Month.

My Motto: “Always try and help someone along the way because you don’t know who may need to help you one day.”
Lynda James Parks -- Mother of the Month October 2023 -- I am an Atlanta native and the eldest of eleven children to Rev. Dr. & Mrs. (Emma) John Allen James Sr. I was blessed to be educated in (grades K-12) and served in the Atlanta Public School System my entire career. Clark College (CAU) is where I received my BA degree, Masters Degree from Georgia State University (GSU), Specialist from Troy State University, and Ph.D from London, and I also studied at The Royal Schools of Music in London. I am the proud mother of twins and grandmother of 4. I published a novel, “Tantalizing International Delights.” I am a Charter Member of First Iconium Baptist Church and have served, volunteered, and worked with several Ministries. My hobbies are reading, traveling, and music. One of my most favorite scriptures is Romans 8:28…and we know that God causes all things to work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose. One of my most favorite sayings: Miracles happen to those who believe. I always say to my children and those I taught to “always put God first and do your best the first time.”
Mary Jenkins -- Mother of the Month of September 2023 -- I grew up in Atlanta, GA (Vine City Community) and attended Booker T. Washington High School (Bulldogs)!! I have one loving daughter, Audrey, and two loving grandchildren. I enjoy bowling and sewing. I am a member of Walker Tabernacle Baptist Church in Atlanta, where I serve on the Usher Board. I retired from Stevens Graphics (a Bell South/ATT subsidiary).

My favorite Scripture: Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)(KJV)
Joyce Butts -- Mother of the Month August 2023 -- When I was born, I came into the world with a bang! In the heat of the day on August 12th in the afternoon, I came into the world, while traffic stopped on the corner of McDaniel Street and Georgia Avenue in Atlanta, Georgia. I was born to the late Gurlee and King Jones on a hot summer day. Most people say that I have been headstrong and independent ever since. My parents had three children, and I was the last to be born. Our family lived in a modest home in the Pittsburgh community in Atlanta, and I graduated from Luther Judson Price High School. I married the love of my life, Charles Butts, Sr., on January 10, 1964. I have four children. My husband and I worked hard to instill Christian values and provide a middle-class upbringing for our children. I retired from Grady Memorial Hospital in 2001 after over 30 years of service. During my retired life I enjoyed traveling with my husband who is now deceased. Babysitting my grandchildren is a joy to me. I love worshipping at First Iconium Baptist Church and serving as a member of the “Mother’s Board.” Most days, you will find me enjoying my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. I miss my husband, but I know we will see each other in heaven someday. Most people agree that I have the right name Joyce, for I am indeed a joy to be around. “The Joy of the Lord is my strength!”
Cathy Padgett -- Mother of the Month of July 2023 -- I grew up in a family with three sisters in Lexington, Kentucky. I graduated from Lafayette High School; active in numerous clubs and activities; graduating in 1963. I attended the University of Kentucky in 1963, with a degree in Home Economics. I taught Home Economics in Illinois, Okinawa, Japan, City of Atlanta, and Trickum Middle School (Gwinnett County). While teaching, I led many clubs, took students to study in Europe, and was once teacher of the year. I accepted Jesus as my savior while in college, and have led Sunday school, youth groups, and adult Bible studies. I am active in Young Life, Methodist, and Presbyterian Churches. I married Ron Padgett and have spent the last 51 years enjoying life with him and our three children. We also have five grandchildren. Having lived in Norcross, GA for 40 years, we have just recently moved to Adairsville, GA.
Daphne Delk -- Mother of the Month of June 2023 -- I am a graduate of Spelman college and a retired Research Scientist and Sales Rep. I serve as the acting Sunday School Superintendent for First Iconium Baptist Church; and I am also a Sunday School teacher. Reading, writing, growing plants, and helping others are what I enjoy as well as baseball. I am an avid Braves fan. Let’s Go Braves!!!
Lillie Stokes -- Mother of the Month May 2023 -- I was married to my husband Prescott Stokes, Sr. for 46+ years and we have 5 sons, 18 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. I am originally from New Orleans, LA, but had to move to Atlanta, Georgia after the “Katrina Storm” which flooded my house and washed it down the street. I worked for L.S.U. University in Banton Rouge, LA as a Nutrition Educator for 35 years, teaching children, adults, and elders on how to eat healthy and take care of themselves. Iin New Orleans, I was a member of New Zion Baptist Church, were I was a Deacon. Presently, I am a member of First Iconium Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia where I am serving as a Deaconess. I am also an Evangelist – prayer warrior on my prayer line at 857-232-0476 (code 928915#).