Neal and Durell Justus with their sons (left to right) Bob, Dickie and Norris. This photo was taken outside the family’s home in Germany Valley in Rabun County, GA in the summer of 1935.
Mother’s Day is one of my cherished observances. Mary Durell Dickerson Justus gave birth to me, her first child, on a stormy April night just three weeks after a terrible tornado. Much more of her ways and thoughts were imparted to me in those early days as Dad, Neal Justus, was away much of the time in WW II working on two or three jobs and on war projects.
Mother’s caring heart, a love of flowers and desire to learn of people, places and things, spurred me to roam far from the blue hazed mountains of home. We kept in touch by much letter writing as Mother was curious about everything. I could say much but will end with this poem:
Mother, your hand that pieced the quilt held me, a baby, to thy breast.
That hand, raw and red from wash day, reached out to me and blessed.
Mother, your hand that held the hoe held up the flower to admire.
That hand, which kneaded the warm dough was quick to pluck me from the fire.
Mother, your hand that knitted socks reached out to my fevered brow.
That hand, which warded off the knocks of young life is sorely missed now.
