Today, Tuesday, May 28th, is my personal Memorial Day for the strongest woman I’ve ever known, a warrior who never wore a uniform or served in our military. Yet, she entered battle, met each challenge with great honor, and left a priceless legacy.

Fifteen years ago today, Mother went to be with her beloved Lord and Saviour. My memories of her are numerous – many too precious to share – and spark to life when I need encouragement or comfort or a firm nudge.

A list of her professional degrees and accolades, her accomplishments and ministries, show what she did. The lives of those she loved reveal the greater truth of Texie Sowers Shelton.

But most telling is that in our family, “Mother”, “Grandmother”, and “Mama Texie” are beautiful, precious words.