Honoring Our Queens

Attentive mothers and grandmothers teach us how to navigate through the ups and downs life can bring with wisdom, resilience, and joy. Their genuine love radiates like the sun when renewed hope is needed. Their teachings make us less confused and more open to embrace our purpose with better clarity, even if we feel like giving up. Mothers and grandmothers play extraordinary roles that enrich our lives in invaluable ways. Matriarchs in Annapolis and Baltimore were recognized by their loved ones whose reflections remind us why they should never be forgotten but always revered.

Genevieve Blackstone turned 90 years old on April 28, 2026.

 Claudia Blackstone

Genevieve Blackstone and Terrell Freeman-EL.

Photos credit: Claudia Blackstone

Be Helpful, Remain Humble, Lend a Hand When You Can

Genevieve Blackstone, 90, cared for numerous children over the years, opening her door as a trusted daycare provider before she retired from running her business called Gen’s Daycare. Additionally, Genevieve instilled priceless values in her children, Claudia Blackstone and Charles Blackstone, and her grandson, Terrell Freeman-EL.

When her children were growing up, she would frequently tell them, “God doesn’t like ugly.” Sometimes the saying referred to how they treated each other, sometimes it referenced how someone else was treated, or it served as a cautionary tale to help them make better decisions going forward.

Claudia, known as a hands-on mother and technically-gifted woman, learned several important precepts from her mother who led her home by example.

“A woman can do almost anything. She raised my brother and I single handedly, and on an extremely meager income made a way for us to participate in so many extracurricular activities such as ballet, gymnastics, football, basketball, tennis, and having arts and crafts at home,” she said.

Claudia also learned something important from her mother: lend a hand when you can. 

“It is God’s will that we help each other. Though we didn’t have a lot, mom never turned a blind eye to anyone in need. Be it a financial gift, or manual labor, she showed up helpful and humble," she added.

And as a caregiver to her mother, Claudia models beliefs that the elderly deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and extra care as they live in their golden years.

Freeman-EL, a community leader who has continued a family tradition of entrepreneurship, stated that God is surely in unity within his grandmother and mother’s selflessness, and the pricelessness of having his life. 

“It is no wonder why I love these two wise and beautiful women!”

 Annette Queen Mason and her husband, Waverly Mason.

Annette Queen Mason (left) with three of her grandchildren.

Courtesy photos

Annette Queen Mason

Location: Annapolis, Maryland

Profession: Teacher 

Nominated to be recognized by her children and grandchildren

A Caring Educator, Heartbeat of Her Family, Who Loves Unconditionally

Annette Queen Mason is a loving, giving woman who has worked in the education field for over 40 years. The mother of three sons and six  grandchildren has a home where everyone is always welcome.

“She always making room for others,” her family members agreed.

 The mother and grandmother’s presence keeps her family connected even though her children are grown. She remains active in all their lives with love, wisdom, and support, making each of them feel seen and valued, and that kind of presence cannot be replaced. Queen Mason, a vibrant woman, enjoys attending church, festivals, local events, and taking long car rides.

She also taught her loved ones how to care for people with a generous heart, and to embrace the value of strength. Her family feels grateful for the example she set and the love she has shared. It feels comforting and reassuring to know that she is present for the people she loves.

“Her presence brings stability,” her family members said collectively. “Happy Mother’s Day to the woman who spent her life teaching children at school and giving the same patience, love, and guidance to the kids in our family. You have always poured into young lives with a teacher’s heart and a mother’s spirit, and your care has made a lasting difference.”

Ashley Gibbs

(L-r): Josiah Gibbs, Ashley Gibbs, Jermaine Gibbs, and Azuri Gibbs.

Photos credit: Jermaine Gibbs

Ashley Gibbs

Location: Baltimore

Profession: Executive Director, Women Leading Baltimore

Mother of Azuri Gibbs, age 6, Josiah Gibbs, age 2

Jermaine Gibbs: Husband

Extraordinary Woman Who Impacts the Lives of Her Family, Community Members

Jermaine Gibbs, the husband of Ashley Gibbs, remarked about his wife’s unwavering love and strength that radiates through every aspect of her life. Ashley exhibits patience and understanding, whether she is  helping with homework or comforting their two children after a tough day.

“As a devoted mother, she embodies resilience, nurturing her children's dreams while balancing her own passions. With a heart full of compassion and an infectious spirit, she inspires those around her, creating a warm and welcoming home that fosters growth and joy. Whether through her thoughtful gestures or empowering words, Ashley exemplifies the true essence of motherhood, making a profound impact on the lives of her family and community,” Jermaine said.

Azuri Gibbs added that her mom is irreplaceable because she gives her the best hugs and always knows how to make her feel better when she is sad.

“She cooks my favorite pancakes and plays with me, even when she’s busy. Plus, she tells the best stories at bedtime and makes everything fun! I love her so much because she makes our family happier,” she added.

Jermaine wanted Ashley to know how grateful he and their children are for her,  and the unwavering love, support, and dedication that makes their family complete.

“Thank you for being the heart of our home and for all the sacrifices you make every day. You inspire me with your strength and kindness, and I cherish every moment we share. Today, we celebrate you and all the wonderful things you do—never forget how irreplaceable you are in our lives,” he said.

Adebola Olaniyi

Profession: PharmD, RPh (pharmacist)

Location: Baltimore County

Mother of Naimah, 14; Rahmah, 11; and Amirah, 17.

A Helpful Guide to Her Three Children, Every Step of the Journey

Naimah Olaniyi’s favorite thing about her mother, Adebola Olaniyi,  is her willingness to discuss any problems or issues that she has.  Adebola knows the solution to them based on her personal experiences.

Additionally, Adebola is special because she is willing to give her daughter second chances to correct her mistakes, instead of punishing her harshly immediately after they occur.

“She can be described as wise because she uses her past experiences to make the right decision with my life. She is also known to be selfless, because she puts my sisters and I before herself,” Naimah added.

Rahmah Olaniyi said that their mother taught her to keep pushing himself to achieve better things in life. She also shows love by sacrificing her time to attend events.

“For example, she could have been doing something else but instead she took the time to come cheer me on at my track meet. I will forever remember how many times she sacrificed her precious time to come support me,” he said. “I am so grateful to have my mom with me every single day supporting me and watching me grow into a better person because of the things she taught me.”

The Olaniyi sisters expressed gratitude for what she has done for them while helping them every step of the way as they gracefully grow into better people.