THE
LIGHT
REMAINS
"
There are some who bring
a light so great to the world,
that even after they have gone, the light remains." ~ Unknown
Lou Muza was the quintessential Southern woman — her smile could
light up a room and warm up even the coldest heart. Her personality
sparkled, yet she never sought the limelight. Instead, she preferred
focusing her attention on others. Whether you needed an encouraging
word or an ear to listen — Mom was always there to help.
Simple, but elegant was the way Mom wanted things, and that’s the
way she lived her life.
For those of us who knew her; Mom was easily recognized by her
impeccable posture and walk. It was as individual as her voice or
fingerprint. Whether she was strolling along the beach or entering a
room, there was a regal quality about her — with her upright carriage
and graceful manner. Even in her 90s, Mom remained poised and radiant.
Looking at her, you’d never guess that Mom had a lifelong love affair with ice cream. And as a point of
pride, (and much to the dismay of her girlfriends) she always kept her figure. How? She ate whatever she
wanted, but never to excess.
​
When it came to Mom’s funny side, she loved a good laugh. She had a soft spot in her heart for anyone who could make her smile with a cute joke or an amusing story. Mom said she admired their talent and always wished she could tell a joke, without fumbling it. (Funny, but I can’t recall a single instance of her ever trying.)
If Mom had a regret, it was that she didn’t get to see the
repeal of Daylight Saving Time. Mom was a stickler for
punctuality and time. Having to change the clocks twice a
year was an unnecessary annoyance. As far as Mom was
concerned — it only made everyone late!
​
An amazing aspect of Mom’s character was — she never had
a bad word to say about anyone. And if she did — she had
the grace to keep it to herself.
​
As her daughters, my sister and I felt blessed to have a
mother who not only loved us unconditionally but equipped
us with valuable life lessons about family and faith. Mom
taught us — to look to the future, to learn from the past,
and to balance strength with kindness, but more
importantly — Mom taught us by the way she lived her life.
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In the 1950s, only about one-third of the women in Mom’s
generation worked outside the home for pay. Women at this
time were largely homemakers and caregivers. Our culture
changed with the emergence of working mothers and wives.
Lou Muza contributed to that shift. As a full-time working
parent, Mom greatly improved our family’s quality of life.
​
Without complaint, Mom juggled her job responsibilities
and managed the household. She always made sure our
house sparkled and shined; even our bedsheets smelled
like sunshine and fresh air. (There was nothing like the
smell of clean sheets, fresh off Mom's clothesline.)
​
Food was her love language, and Mom's cooking nourished
both body and soul. Mom always had “Room for one more”
at her dinner table, as she kept the refrigerator filled with
enough food to feed a small army. And no matter if you
were a first-time visitor or a long-time friend, when you came
to her house — Mom made you feel welcome and right at
home. Then, when it was time to say goodbye, as you drove
away, Mom stood on the front porch waving, until your car
was no longer in sight.
​
According to Dad, he fell in love with Mom from the moment
he saw her. She was seventeen when they married, and he
was twenty-two. And even though their marriage didn't last
forever, they remained friends for the rest of their lives.
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Being lovely and sweet, Mom had her share of suitors;
however, it was the newfound title of “Grandmother” that
brought her a whole new level of love. Her three grand-
children and great-grandson captured her heart, and they affectionately called her “Dollbaby.” The nickname became synonymous with her name — as if it were an inseparable
part of her identity, (and she cherished it).
​
Mom never missed an opportunity to let us know she was
thinking about us. Receiving one of her typewritten notes tucked
inside a greeting card was a special treasure. I can almost hear
the typewriter keys clacking, as she sat at her desk, putting her thoughts on paper. (My sister and I saved every note she sent.)
Throughout her life, Mom showed us that there are no limits
to faith, courage, or love. Her life was a powerful reminder of
God’s faithfulness and her influence will continue to inspire us
for the rest of our lives.
And now, as we say goodbye to Mom, with love and gratitude —
let us remember the beauty of her spirit, the echo of her laughter, and the warm embrace of her love. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.
love
you
Mom
