The “Neighborhood Mom” and Much More

The Neighborhood Mom and Much More, that is what Mother aka Mary Helen was to virtually every teenager east of Lockwood Blvd. I lived around the corner from her on Englewood Street. I grew up in conflict, torn between my grandmother who was raising me and my often absent mother who lived across the street. My 4 brothers and sisters treated me as if my name was Cinderfeller. I was a soft spoken and youth that many of my friends hurtfully called high yellow. Needless to say, my life was filled with emotional trauma and often times feelings of low self esteem.

I met Mother when I was around 14 years of age and for more than twenty years her generosity, beautiful smile, the twinkle in her eyes and her softly spoken words of wisdom guided me through times of confusion and despair. She became one of a very small group of people that I credit with making me into the successful father and businessman that I am today.

The lessons that I learned from her have been passed on to my two sons. Both of them I am very proud of.

I consider Mother to have been the living example of what Jesus the Christ wanted each of us to become. Through her love, she made me strive to become a better man. Because of her, I and my sons continue to strive and her smile and wisdom will live on for generations to come in my family.

With deepest love,

Glen Reaux

RIP Mrs. Wiseman...I will always remember your words!

There was one Saturday when Mrs. Wiseman invited me to go to the public library with her and      Kijana.  Mrs. Wiseman was working on Her Master’s Degree.  Kijana and I headed straight for  the Children’s Room to see what we could find there.    We were about 12 years old.  

As soon as we got there we got in trouble.  We, in all our grown up thinking, decided Kijana would sign my mother’s name so I could get a library card. The two older Caucasian women who worked there knew my mother was not there.  They proceeded to reprimand us and threatened to throw us out. Then under their voices but loud enough for us to hear said, “what were THEY doing in here.” And “THEY don't belong in here.”

And, oboy, we couldn't wait to tell Mrs. Wiseman.  And we did.  

Naturally, the two library staff workers wanted to see us in trouble, and punished, but  that was not Mrs. Wiseman’s way.  Instead, Mrs. Wiseman, in no uncertain terms, reminded the two library workers of the importance of libraries in the development of all children, of the importance of encouragement in the pursuit of education for all children, and how their actions should be examined for the possibility of inappropriate behavior in a public institution. To see them lower their heads in shame at the words of Mary Helen Wiseman was just the best experience ever.    To make the point, Mrs. Wiseman, said she would assume responsibility for my books, and signed for my application.  All I had to do was promise to tell my mother.  

Thanks to Ms fast Kijana And Mrs. Wiseman I had my first library card.  

I was in heaven.  Years, later I   got great mileage from that story and Mrs. Wiseman’s words especially when  encouraging young people to use libraries, reminding them that we were not always welcome in libraries, and at one time were forbidden to read.  You see I ended up pursuing a career inlibrary science. I have worked in public libraries, and as a school librarian for a total of a short 28.5 years.  Yes, Mary Helen Wiseman did have life long impact impact on me.  Rest in peace, Mrs. Wiseman.  I will miss you.  and I will always remember your words.

Sandra Broussard-Lane, Librarian
Vacaville, California

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FACEBOOK POSTS...

Linda K Brown: Kijana, your Mom was a special lady and you were blessed to be with her as she made her heavenly transition. Just getting back in town but my prayers continue to be with you and your family.

Terry Parker: What a beautiful story of love. She is resting now. You did such a wonderful job at caring for your mom. I saw it first hand. She wanted for nothing because you gave her all the love and care she needed. I personally enjoyed all the beautiful stories you shared over the years. A love story between a mother and her daughter.

Catherine Babineaux What a beautiful women and a wonderful life she lived. It's hard to grieve when you KNOW she is going to see the KING! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your mom was one of the most wonderful women I have ever met. Be blessed!

Soha Hasan Beautiful tribute, may she rest in peace

David Sutton God bless you, and your family.

Terry Parker What a beautiful story of love. She is resting now. You did such a wonderful job at caring for your mom. I saw it first hand. She wanted for nothing because you gave her all the love and care she needed. I personally enjoyed all the beautiful stories you shared over the years. A love story between a mother and her daughter.

November 15 at 11:26am · Like · 1

Mona Ben Well spoken. She's now at peace. I love how you excepted her departure. My mom too is at rest (16 years) and I miss her everyday but I praise God for relieving her pain from this side and taking her to her heavenly home.

Doc Doolittle My GOD Bless and keep her . . .

Joe Carmouche Beautiful. God bless you and your family.

Catherine Babineaux What a beautiful women and a wonderful life she lived. It's hard to grieve when you KNOW she is going to see the KING! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your mom was one of the most wonderful women I have ever met. Be blessed!

Gaspar Suarez My condolences.

Tracey Drake Morgan I am so sorry for your loss! Thank you for sharing such a loving tribute! You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Maya Atta My condolences to you and your family, Kijana. God bless all of you.

Ron Jackson Kijana, may the peace of God continue to be with you and your family!

Milton D. Moore That's great she is at peace in the arms of her Father. Passed on but still alive. Reach out to her you will find her.

Nicolas Wiseman That was beautiful cousin. My condolences goes out to you for the loss of aunt Mary.

Sandra Broussard Lane My condolences to you and your family. Mother Wiseman was a special individual. There was no one else like her. Rest in peace. And thank you, Kijana, for sharing the last days of Mother Wiseman with all of us. Hugs.

Brenda Barrett Moma Love Praying for you and your family's peace.

Mary Mertens What a beautiful message. Condolences for your loss.

Joanna Cameron You have indeed been loved by an Angel, Kijana Wiseman! And YOU are one too...

Richard Herrington Kijana - I am sorry to hear about your loss. I know that she was a tremendous woman- Just look at yrself. I will be praying for you.

Margaret Sims-Minor MY PRAYERS AND CONDOLENCES WILL BE DAILY FOR THE FAMILY!! I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HER AS A BEAUTIFUL AND WONDERFUL LADY,ALWAYS HAD SOME WISDOM FOR YOU. SHE WAS A RARE JEWEL!!

Sam Khalifa may her soul rest it peace.

Jenny Stelling Cosgrove Thank you for sharing your journey with us. May she rest in peace.

Kathi Park Gutierrez I will miss your humorous interactions. You were a loving daughter to the end. May she rest in peace.

Diane M Stelling Heaven's newest angel!!!

Roger Bijjani God bless you and your family and eternal rest in peace

Monifa Adenike Jumanne Kijana, Heaven is rejoicing; another angel has returned! Our love and prayers are with you

Marcia Broadus Jones What a beautiful story. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family

Carrie Duitsman Schwartz Wow, what a rare and encouraging story. Thank you and God bless you.

Muyi Abifarin That my friends, is how you live a life. Much love to you!

Shawndra Fielder Wiseman That is BEAUTIFUL! My sincerest condolences to you and your family!

Miriam B. Nicholson Thank you for sharing your journey - I am glad she passed peacefully. My condolences to you and your family.

Mamuna Atta I am very sorry for your loss.

Jas Kelley My condolences. God bless you and your family.

Steve Wilson So Sorry for your Loss. Prayers of peace

Denise DAntonio Malecki An amazing woman indeed

Jill Richardson King My deepest sympathy for your loss. Many thanks for sharing so many lovely stories this past year...I know she will be missed.

Mary Douglas Carroll Sorry for your loss.

Darian Ward Sweetie, I will be there!

Afi Whitney Kijana, I'm sure that she appreciated the care, kindness and love that you have shown her. It has been touching reading your posts. My sincere condolences and admiration.

Lowell Engle Soory for your loss. I am sure you did everything right for your mon. Lowell

Sylvia Rivera Nickerson My condolences! Prayers for you and your family.

John Ellis Sorry for your loss, Ki. Condolences to you and your family. Sounds like your Mom was surrounded by love. You were blessed to have known her so intimately on her final days.

Jane Frazier I am so sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. You were the most wonderful daughter any parent could ask for, and you took marvelous care of her. You gave your mom such love and devotion. You are amazing Kijana, I am praying for you and your family.

Laura Stark My heart goes out to you and yours Kijana! You were so caring and loving to your mother up to the very end!! Sending love and healing thoughts to you!!

Joyce Talavera My condolences. May she rest in peace.

Ladi Lawanson Accept my condolence Kijana. I have followed your romance with her on Facebook with great respect And admiration. May her gentle soul rest in peace. Indeed, you are a wonderful daughter to her. May life unfold great treasures and more memorable occasions for you.

Ruth Bellinger Holladay My condolences. Thank you for sharing with us the stories of your beautiful mother. Your love for each other has been a delight and blessing to those of us reading from afar. Blessings as you learn to live without her, but with very rich stories and memories.

Thomas M. Blanton A beautiful home going. Peace be with you and your family.

Sam Dinkins III God bless you and your family during this time of bereavement. Peace be with you, SD3

Kat Grafix Oh dear! Kijana... my sincere condolences... let me give you a call

Sandra Broussard Lane Kijana, stay strong. it was such a beautiful bond. Thank you for sharing peeks with us. Hugs.

Charlotte Dotson-Doll God Bless Your Beautiful Mother and You and Your Husband, and the whole Family. I Believe Mother Is With God!

Rashid Khalifa My sincere condolences, and may her soul rest in peace.

Rob Doolittle Thanks for sharing a beautiful story. Sorry for your loss.

Charmain Williams Rosher What a beautiful tribute to your mom - my sincerest condolences

Doug Mayer Kijana Wiseman...you are such a kind woman and I'm sure you got it from your Mom. So sorry for your loss, yet your Mom is certainly in a better place and finally resting peacefully. Prayers our to you and your family.

Paula J Wilder What a beautiful journey and a life well lived.

Adrienne Bell May His peace continue to flow like a river. How beautiful to be loved by an angel.

Steve Mitchell My sincere condolences, what a full life she lived!

Ellen Tichy A beautiful picture collage... Sending warm thoughts and hugs!

Rubi Perez My most sincere condolences dear friend. You were more than a wonderful daughter! No words to explain the grief of loosing a most loved one but we know she's in better place to live forever. Prayers your way.

Archie Asar Sorry for your loss Kijana, she will be missed.

Johan Fremlin An awesome lady raised an awesome daughter. Sorry to hear about your mothers passing, and happy to hear you were able to spend these last months and moment with her.

Lauren Brayton Hanson My deepest condolences Kijana.

Ida Australiani Nasution We are sorry for your loss, but this is the best for her.

Racheal King The apple did not fall far from the tree! Thank you for sharing those beautiful thoughts of your Mom and may God Bless You and your family. Love Racheal King.

Lee Sonius Very touching!! Have my sympathy. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Liz Anderson I am so sorry

Jeannine Buse Betts My heart reaches out to you.

Davetta Daniels Kiana: I am sincerely sorry to hear your mother passed. However, I feel certain she is now safely tucked among the angels of the Lord. She was such an humble and pleasant woman, and you are very blessed to have her for so many years. A great teacher, and gracious woman, rest in peace. You have my deep sympathy.

Karen Zientek Richardson I'm sorry for your loss, but so relieved to hear her journey is so gentle. Peace my friend.

Helene Cooper I'm so sorry. Hang in there, and I'll say a prayer for your beautiful mom.

Phil McAfee What a sweet, wonderful, and Godly woman. I'm excited to see her again one day more full of life than she ever was on this earth!

Thaddeus Honora We are so sorry for your lost. She is in a better place now. No more suffering. She is with our Heavenly Father. You have done a wounderful job. Our prayers are with you and family. Love always.

Lesley Stares Sorry for your loss

Lynda Wright Gittens Mdiv Kiana what peace. Its truly an honor to be with your love one as the Lord calls them home. Praying for your continued comfort and strength.

April Gaines She was a beautiful human being and feel so blessed to have known her.

Quincetta Ross She was a gentle and sweet lady. I will share something with you latest on how your note here has helped me. God works through others when they don't know it. God bless you and family. I shall remember Mrs. Wiseman forever.

Sharon Jenkins What a beautiful ending for a life well lived. I send you much love my friend.

Arlesha Gaines Well said that was beautiful peace is a beautiful thing

Don Samuel May the God of comfort give you and your family the peace that passes all understanding!

Boymah Darrell Bartie My condolences,ma'am

Soha Hasan Beautiful tribute, may she rest in peace

David Sutton God bless you, and your family.

PRE-2014 LETTERS...

Hello Mrs. Wiseman,

You probably don't remember me but I was in your 1st grade class at Easter. I think about you a lot and I talk about you even more to anybody that will listen.

I was just talking to my 14 yr old daughter Symphony Faith about you and I had tears in my eyes.  I needed to know how you were doing so I just took a chance and looked you up on the computer. My name is Sylonda Hughes and you taught me how to read. I remember my father died in 1979 so I had to leave John F. Kennedy elementary and relocate to Easter.

I was struggling really hard trying to understand reading and writing and you noticed. I failed the 1st grade which my mom argued with you and the principal about. You told my mom that you would teach me how to read and write and going back to the 1st grade would be the best thing for me to do.

Mrs. Wiseman, repeating the 1st grade was not only the best, it was the greatest. you taught me how to read and write so well, before the 2nd semester I was reading and writing with the highest level of kids in the class and I continued at that level for a very long time. I thank you because you never gave up on me.

You are the kind of teacher that I wish my daughter had the pleasure of learning from. I'm crying now while I'm writing to you because I love you so much and I really appreciate you for loving me and loving your job and just being the greatest teacher in the world.

Thank you again Mrs. WISEMAN, you're the GREATEST!!!!!

Sylonda Hughes Butler 

Hi Sister Wiseman-

I am so glad to hear of your great recovery. I have truly been praying for you and I miss you so much. It is a blessing having you at St. Luke with me as well as the years you taught me in elementary school.

Know that your space at St. Luke is not the same and awaits your return. I often wondered what I could do for you for the years you taught me and the wonderful hugs you give me now at church. These things are priceless, I lost my mother some time ago and when I get a hug from you, it's like getting a hug from her. You are the most beautiful person inside out that I have ever known.

This is straight from my heart. I know your daughter will take good care of you because she is a product of you.

 

Love Sister Sybil Stephens Anderson