EBONY Staff Pays Homage to Their Moms This Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a significant occasion that celebrates the invaluable role of mothers, particularly highlighting the importance of Black mothers in our communities. Black mothers have historically been pillars of strength, resilience, and nurturing care, often balancing multiple roles and responsibilities with grace and determination. They play a crucial role in shaping the future generation, instilling values of perseverance, cultural pride and love. Mother’s Day serves as a poignant reminder to honor and cherish the contributions, sacrifices and unwavering love of Black mothers, recognizing their invaluable impact on families, communities, and society as a whole.

Below, the EBONY team extends heartfelt gratitude and admiration to the remarkable women who have shaped our lives with their love, wisdom, and strength—the embodiment of motherhood’s essence. We honor their enduring resilience, unwavering support, and boundless sacrifices that have nurtured us into who we are today. From instilling values of compassion and perseverance to being our pillars of inspiration and guidance, our mothers have left indelible imprints on our hearts and souls. On this special day, we offer flowers of appreciation and deep respect to Black mothers everywhere, celebrating their profound influence and unwavering love that enriches our lives immeasurably.

J’nelle Agee, Executive Director, Editorial

“I’m thankful for my twin, my namesake and the best mother a girl could ask for in J. Maxcine Agee! I’m so thankful to have you as my mom and my ultimate cheerleader. We’ve been through some incredible highs and some of the worst lows together, and the one thing that has remained true is our connection and love for each other. I don’t know what I’d do without you, Mommy. Happy Mother’s Day! I Love YOU!”

Marsha Littlejohn, Controller

“Happy Mother’s Day to my mom, Mollie Phelps. One of the best to ever do in my opinion. My mom is worth celebrating today and everyday for all that she did and still does for my siblings and me and now her grandkids.  She has a heart of gold and will do anything for anyone she meets. I love you mom.” 

Victor Qunnuell Vaughns Jr, Fashion + Beauty Lead  

“My mom and I have always rejected the notion that ‘parents can’t be friends with their children.’ She’s truly one of my best friends. We can spend hours chatting on the phone or sitting on the couch until she nods off, even while insisting she’s still awake. She’s the one who ignited my love for fashion and instilled in me a strong work ethic.” 

Savannah Taylor, Senior Interactive Producer

“My mom is my world—my rock— because she is responsible for so much of who I am. She has always maintained a deep sense of faith in me and encouraged me to follow wherever my creativity would lead me. She has been the epitome of Black womanhood and I wish everyone had the opportunity to experience her! I love being Marly’s child!”  

Delaina Dixon, TV + Film Lead

“Alexandreena Dixon always says, ‘This is not a friendship; you are the parent.’ But she’s been my mentor/therapist/financial advisor/heart mender/cheerleader/fashion police (in the best kind of way)/workout and spa buddy/travel partner/sorority sister/queen mother and a whole list of other roles that transcend any “ships” out there. I love you and I am so glad that I get to call you Mom.”

 

Chevece Jones, Director, People Operations 

“This is my mother, Jacqueline AKA Penny. As I know she is smiling down from the heavenly gates. I want to honor her for all the things she was not able to give me. Not because she did not want to but because she did not have it to give. It was what my mom did not say and do that fueled me in LOVE. Today and always, I want to thank my mom for being patient with me. I am #PennySeed.”

Jeana M. Edney, Brand & Marketing Manager

“Happy Mother’s Day to the most selfless, loving and incredible woman in my life. You are the glue that holds our family together, and I’m so grateful for your unwavering support, guidance, and unconditional love. Today and every day, l celebrate you and all the sacrifices you’ve made for me. Thank you for being my rock, my stylist, and my best friend. I love you more than words can express!”

Beonca Knockum, Brand Solutions Project Coordinator 

“She is my lifesaver, my prayer warrior and my biggest cheerleader. Happy Mother’s Day to she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take. Love you Mom!”

Gitory Bartell, Content Producer, Social

“The one who taught me how to pray, the one who instilled in me the importance of work ethic and the one who always made a way… that’s my mama!”

Kai Bailer, Content Producer, Social

“The light of my life and queen of my world. There are not enough words to express my gratitude for the biggest blessing ever bestowed upon me, my ‘mommy-girl.’ My mother is the living embodiment of strength and devotion, and there is literally no me without her love, guidance, wisdom, and support. Happy Mother’s Day Mommy! I love you forever!”

Kristin Morgan

“I am BEYOND blessed for my AMAZING Mommy, Judith Estelle Burrell, who now rests in Heaven and the living breathing ANGEL that the Creator has given me, my mother-in-law, Dana L. Morgan. My foundation set was solid and my present and future are favored. I feel held down in EVERY way possible. Grateful is the most severe understatement. I LOVE YOU LADIES. “

Annastacia Gladston, Video Producer 

“I am beyond grateful for my mother Nyree Griffith. She has taught me the true meaning of strength, resilience and being a go-getter. Mommy, thank you for your sacrifices, your love, and your never-ending support. I love you!”