A heartwarming family photo has brought together six generations of strong and remarkable women, all united by the precious bond of motherhood. At the center of this beautiful image is MaeDell Hawkins, a spirited 98-year-old great-great-great-grandmother, who has spent her life cradling countless babies in her loving arms.
Last month, MaeDell had the joy of cuddling her newest family member, little Zhavia, who was born in December. Gracie Howell, MaeDell’s 58-year-old granddaughter, feels overwhelming happiness seeing all the women – from the youngest baby to her incredible great-great-great-grandmother – gathered together in this stunning photograph.
This photograph is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of motherhood. It showcases an unbroken chain of women passing down their love, wisdom, and life experiences to each new generation. Gracie, who cherishes the memories of her grandmother, describes her as cognitively sharp and always ready to share her expert advice on child care.
Even now, living in a nursing home, MaeDell’s connection with Zhavia remains powerful. During a recent visit, when the little one grew restless, MaeDell skillfully plucked her from her mother’s embrace and playfully tickled her tiny feet. Gracie holds this precious memory close to her heart, a reminder of her grandmother’s nurturing touch and the beautiful moments they share.
What began as a simple act of sharing a photo of MaeDell and Zhavia with a local meteorologist has turned into an unexpected wave of attention. Gracie was overwhelmed by the overwhelmingly positive response that followed. This newfound recognition is well-deserved for MaeDell, serving as a reminder that age is merely a number and shouldn’t determine a person’s worth.
MaeDell is a living embodiment of resilience, joy, and wisdom. She has never allowed life’s challenges to dampen her spirit. At the age of 16, she married her first husband, who was in his fifties and worked as a train worker, often away from home. Together, they had 13 children and raised his ten children from a previous marriage. MaeDell’s life was far from easy, lacking modern conveniences like a washing machine, dishwasher, or even running water. Gracie vividly recalls her grandmother’s experiences of not having access to running water during her teenage years.
Nevertheless, MaeDell remained strong and carried on silently, never complaining about her circumstances. Despite the hardships, she made sure her family had enough to eat and clean clothes to wear. Her unwavering resilience and determination inspire those around her, teaching us that joy can be found even in the most trying situations.
As the family has grown over time, MaeDell proudly says, “We have a large and loving family.” Despite outliving multiple spouses and most of her stepchildren, MaeDell’s journey has been one filled with substance and meaning, overflowing with countless cherished moments and loved ones.
Gracie expresses her deep admiration for her grandmother, proclaiming, “I simply adore her.” MaeDell’s life story is a testament to the power of love and the strength that resides within each of us, regardless of age.
