Although I’ve been blessed to have amazing and inspiring members in my family, my Dad’s mother is one that I aspire to be one day. Her perseverance and love for family is something to be admired and hoped for in ourselves.
Marie DeGutis was born to a farming family in Georgia. There she was raised to be a responsible young woman with big dreams and a big heart. She was hardworking and determined to make a life for herself. She eventually went on to become a nurse and met my Grandfather, William Alex Broussard. They married and were blessed with four beautiful children, my father being one of them. Since then, her collection of stockings around the fireplace has grown to an astonishing size as she greets more and more grandchildren.
Even though she has lived in Beaumont, Texas my entire life, my family usually only visits about three times a year for holidays. But to this day I hold a myriad of memories from her house. I remember being forced, to my dismay, to eat all my vegetables in order to get, ‘A Happy Plate,’ and leave the table. I remember stern looks when I forgot to use proper manners. I remember being scolded for stealing a cookie with my cousin Bailey late at night. But I also recall warm kisses on my cheek as I greeted her, and bright grins for my accomplishments. I recall waking to the sound of her slippers on the tiles as she bustled around the kitchen, preparing breakfast for everyone. I recall her unwavering desires for the family to spend time with one another, whatever the reason may be. She raised me to be a polite and courteous young woman, one who loved and cherished her family with all her heart.
But a characteristic of hers that fully came into light this past year was her strength. Last September, my family suffered the loss of my Pop Pop, her husband, to liver failure. That month was a tumultuous one for my family, but we got through it together. Now as we reach the 8 month anniversary of his passing, my Grandmommie continues to amaze me. She has not let his death slow her down, and has instead pursued many projects around the house. And as she finishes up on her new backyard shed, I know that her unwavering strength won’t be stopping anytime soon.