The story of MaeDell Snow Taylor and her extraordinary, multi-generational family has touched the hearts of millions around the world.
The heartwarming reunion was documented in a viral photo that gave MaeDella’s family an opportunity to highlight her extraordinary life story, from being a natural caregiver to her many challenges throughout her life.
Six generations of women came together to celebrate a remarkable family reunion
The family was able to share their matriarch’s incredible story with a widely shared photo that shows six generations of women.
MaeDell Snow Taylor, a vivacious 98-year-old, had the pleasure of witnessing the birth of her great-great-great-granddaughter Zhavia at a loving family reunion. Six generations of women came together to celebrate the newest member of their family.
MaeDell’s 58-year-old granddaughter, Gracie Snow Howell, cherishes the special occasion. Gracie tells TODAY.com, “We spent three hours with her — she held the baby pretty much the whole time. When the baby started crying, MaeDell said, ‘Give me the baby.'” She’s a natural caregiver and you could tell how excited she was to be with us and hug the baby.
MaeDell, Gracie, Gracie’s mother Frances (age 77), Gracie’s daughter Jacqueline (age 39), Gracie’s granddaughter Jaisline (age 19) and baby Zhavia, who was just 9 weeks old at the time, were all photographed as a keepsake. special occasion.
The image quickly became popular, much to Gracie’s surprise. She noted the rarity of six generations, especially in all females, but was surprised by the positive response from the public. Gracie admits, “I never expected the greatness she’s achieved. ‘It’s over!’
MaeDell herself, on the other hand, didn’t seem surprised by the attention. Gracie recalls her cousin telling MaeDell about her newfound popularity during a chat, which she finds amusing. “You know Grandma, you were on the news! My cousin went to the nursing home and informed her about it. Everyone can see you!” Gracie remembers. “She was smiling widely as she devoured her cheese puffs. Yes, all the men just stare at you and comment on how beautiful and young you look,” he added. And they give me kisses too, she said.
Gracie takes the opportunity to discuss MaeDella’s extraordinary existence. MaeDell had to overcome several difficulties in her upbringing. She married my grandfather when she was 16 and he was 50, according to Gracie. Unfortunately, his first wife died while giving birth to twins at home.
Bill Taylor, Gracia’s grandfather, had ten children from his first marriage; seven of them were still living at home when he remarried. MaeDell took care of all the children when she was just 16 years old while raising 13 of her own.
Looking back, Gracie realizes how much of a struggle her grandmother went through. Girls would marry around 14, according to Gracie, they would give birth at a young age. “Because she lacked modern conveniences like washing machines and dishwashers, MaeDell had to deal with several problems. She was unable to get in her car and drive to the store. Instead, she used a board and carried the laundry down to the pond.” She got up early every morning to collect eggs, wring the necks of a few birds and prepare breakfast before the children left for school, then prepare a hot meal for them.
Yet MaeDell never grumbled despite the difficult circumstances of her life. Gracie praises her grandmother’s bravery, saying: “She had an incredibly difficult life, but she never let that get her down.”
Having raised three children of her own and two stepchildren, Gracie is aware of the enormous responsibility that comes with raising children. She is in awe of how her 16-year-old grandmother can take care of a large family while her grandfather worked outside the home, including managing her 3-year-old granddaughter’s daily routine.
Gracie considers MaeDella’s resourcefulness and tenacity that characterized her personality. Gracie points out, “She made do with what was available.” We have the utmost respect for her. She is a remarkable woman and we hope someone writes a book about her. She is a role model and I have a lot of respect for her.
Gracie points out that MaeDell’s marriage to a much older man never caused guilt in her family. She talks about her personal experiences as a young mother who gave birth to Gracie just before she turned 18. Family is adamant in accepting and accepting the situations that life throws at you. We have never been ashamed of our history, says Gracie. MaeDell never felt embarrassed either. That was her life—God had predetermined her course.
With MaeDell having a whopping 621 offspring, this approach has created an amazing legacy. This includes her two biological great-great-grandchildren, 63 biological great-great-grandchildren, 104 great-great-grandchildren, and 13 biological children.
Gracie emphasizes the invaluable lessons MaeDell taught her, especially the importance of being there for her children and having a good work ethic. MaeDell rarely sat down to eat, according to Gracie’s mother, who remembers her as always on the go. It was never unoccupied and never stood around. My own mother was engaged in housework, taking care of food at night and clothes in the morning.
MaeDell has served as an inspiration to family ladies who have been applying this philosophy for many years.
MaeDell’s family cherishes the precious memories of a unique reunion of six generations as they excitedly await the birth of MaeDell’s third great-great-great-grandchild, a boy. Gracie envisions a time when Zhavia shares these stories and appreciates the strength of her legacy, which is derived from the amazing women who came before her.
Her journey serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the strength of family bonds that span generations. In addition, MaeDell and her legacy have become a source of inspiration and motivation for many, showing how kindness and positivity can transform…