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My mother is the most special and caring person in the world. Ellen Marie Pack Howell was born on August 18, 1941, in a small town in Patrick County, Va.

She grew up very poor with just her mother to raise her. Her Mother worked in a peach canning factory to take care of my Mother and her sister. Granny always said, “I just want my girls to graduate from high school.” My Mom was so smart that she skipped a grade and eventually graduated at the top of her class.

Throughout her 68 years, my mother has been my biggest supporter. She took care of me and my five siblings. We were poor, but she always loved and encouraged us to do our best.

She was a firm believer in God and education and always took us to church. God was first, then family and, finally, education. All six children graduated from college or a university and now have 11 grandchildren for my Mother to love and spoil, which she always does.

Without my mom, I would not be where I am today. She has always been there for me, regardless of the situation. Recently, I had back surgery, and my Mother was there, treating me like a little girl again. I loved it!

She is the most wonderful Mother that a daughter could ever want. Thank you for teaching me the most important fundamentals of life and always being there for me. I love you so much!

Sandra Cates