The following passages were written by Joann's husband and seven children expressing their thoughts and reasons for honoring her with the title of "Heroine."
When Joann entered my life the days were filled with happy times and love. We were married in the spring-time and we talked of love and planned our future years together. Over the years our plans of family were fulfilled with three girls and four boys, all healthy and full of promise for their lives ahead.
Joann has always been a winner: as a wife, as a mother and as a community activist. As our children matured and reached adulthood she was always there for guidance when it was needed or a laugh or a smile during the happy times. Now during the middle-age years Joann is content with her life. The many family gatherings and her grandchildren keep her bustling from one project to another. I am sure that the years ahead will bring Joann joy and happiness that she so richly deserves.
Dr. Jeptha F. Randolph, Husband
I have a mother who read to me, played with me, sang to me, and even disciplined me, "OUCH my ear!" But, most of all I have a mother who loves me. Mom, I will always love you. Thanks for letting me be me.
Ritchie L. Randolph, Eldest Son
(Friend of Bill W.)
We are two women now. Both with grown, independent daughters who still need the wisdom and support of their mothers. Regardless of the paths we
choose, we continue to look for encouragement from the one person who is always there. Always a mother, but hopefully, finally, a friend. Mom, I love you...
Monica Joann Randolph Dierks, Daughter
Children: Shane Ann and Katherine Joann
Holidays were and still are special at my mom's house. She decorates the house and yard for all the holidays. This includes St. Patrick's Day, Valentines Day and all the major holidays. As we kids grew up and
moved away from home it got harder and harder for all of the family to get home for Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. As the years went by Easter and Thanksgiving were dropped from the required attendance list, but, to this day everyone is expected to be home for Christmas. If you're not, you better be dead or you'll get the wrath of mom and wish you were.
In my job I travel a lot both in the United States and internationally. There were times when it looked like I may not make it home for Christmas. But, I always did.
There were a few years when mom called my boss to express her concern about this matter. Thank God, I finally got her to stop doing this, however, my boss didn't want to get on the bad side of mom either. Over the years mom has made everyday special to me for just being her. Mom claims not to have much of a sense of humor but she sure puts a smile on my face. I love you mom.
Victor A. Randolph, Son
When I hear the name Joann Randolph,
Mother of Seven is the unspoken title which is attached. She is a woman who definitely is the "central figure in an event or period," at least in our family. Words such as honest, giving, loyal, organized, "take charge," hospitable, and high energy comes to mind when envisioning her. Every one of her children and grandchildren knows how important family is to her. It is understood by all what this importance entails.
It is through children of all ages that mom really shines. She personally likes the little
children best, but, the teenagers are drawn to her as well. I have seen her as a wisdom figure to teenagers who struggle with difficult home situations, peer pressure, and everyday life. I have seen her as a cheerleader who encourages others to pursue their dreams and goals. For me the thing I like best is that she is my mom. All of the things I see her do for others are returned to me as well. As I grow older I see my mother in myself, as I see my father. I know that the woman I am today is greatly influenced by her and this fills me
with pride and happiness. Thanks mom, know that you are loved!
Mellody Marie Randolph, Daughter
All our lives have been touched by my mother. Through the years she has always stressed the strength of family. She raised us to know right from wrong, we learned that to make it in the world today it takes hard work and to be willing to pitch in to help not only family but your neighbors and community. She is a big part of who I am
today. Love always.
Jeptha F. Randolph Jr., Son
Wife: Lorinda
Children: Zachary, Cody, Elizabeth, and Andrew
Being a teacher I get to meet many parents. I feel very fortunate to have a wonderful mother who is committed to her family. Through seven children she maintained routine, consistency and discipline. She was always a part of what we did, making it possible for us to be
involved. The importance of family, education, work and religion are four values I take with me through life.
As a grandmother the hard part is through. She can openly show her love without having to be the disciplinarian she was with us. She is the ear to listen and the lap to snuggle up into at the days end. The love my son has for his grandmother is one I cherish deeply.
I know as a teen I put my mother through many "trying" hours, but as an adult and
mother I hope I am bringing back the pride, joy and love that made her even consider bringing number six into the world.
Madonna Renee Randolph Gretten, Daughter
Husband: Jim
Children: Trevor
Joann Mae Randolph was born September 17, 1938. When she was three years old she lost her mother to cancer. If my mom had died when I was three, I cannot imagine who or what I would be today.
The difficulties that my mother overcame during her childhood helped define the person she became and the values that she instilled in her children. Through her moral strength she taught us to be honest caring, even handed, proud and hard working. The trait that I most admire about my mother is her deep sense of integrity.
Integrity. My definition for "integrity," is Joann Randolph. My mom is the most honest person I know. She taught me that honesty is not only the best policy but the only policy. In the world today there is a
trend that endorses, or at least accepts, a lower moral and ethical standard for people to live by. The difference between good and bad, right and wrong, black and white are easy to determine. The trouble is determining what shade of gray to choose. This is the true test of one’s character. In my eyes my mom never failed the test, even during the most trying circumstances. The values that my mom taught me as a child, continue to stand the test of time.
Many times in my life (past, present and future) my integrity will be tested. Mom,
thank you for providing me with the moral foundation to guide me to the proper decisions. I hope that throughout my life I can posses the eternal strength that you have demonstrated in pursuing what is right and to determine what is just. Mom, thank you for showing me how to follow my dreams and stand-up for what I believe. Love.
Paul F. Randolph, Youngest Son
Wife: Alise 1/7/95 |
