Two nights ago, my dear friend Catherine called me up to tell me that her grandmother was very near to breathing her last breath and she was wondering if I had some pictures I had taken 6 years ago. 6 back up drives later I located them. That was back in my sepia phase and when I didn’t quite know what I was doing all the time. But OH MY how that precious soul was shining.

Last night, surrounded by family and the singing of songs, Ma-Gaye went to be with Jesus. I simply have to share a little about her life and these images shot at Ball’s Creek Camp Meeting where Ma-Gaye attended 89 years. She missed one because of a polio outbreak. The one’s of her singing with her daughter and granddaughter make tears pour down my face. What a legacy!

I remember meeting Ma Gaye for the first time after being ever so curious after reading the hilarious notes she would send my friend in college. I remember gathering around our college post office boxes when a letter from her would come. When I met her I felt such a kindred spirit with her. She was such a free spirit and her constant singing and dancing, no matter who was looking gave me such joy. She a strong and brave strength for her family, she was a joy to all who laid eyes on her, and she brought so much spice to the world that I know it will never be the same.

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