Black Love: Platinum Style! 70 Years!

Seventy years ago today, Wilfred, 91 and Cecile, 88 exchanged sacred vows … and they are still going strong! This is Black Love at its finest and a rare accomplishment! Let's bless them and ease their days in the years to come.

Wilfred and Cecile

Mom and Dad

Grandma and Grandpa

Uncle Bey and Nanny

Bey and Tot-tite

 

Whatever you call them, you were likely blessed by their care, generosity, and wisdom throughout the years.

 

Dad always embodied the Kwanzaa principle of Kujichagulia (to define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves). A hard-working man without any formal education who managed to master carpentry and established himself as one of the most respected and sought after floormen in Lafayette, LA., and the surrounding area. He went on to train countless black men, providing them with floor installation skills that eventually helped many of them become self-employed business owners. Wilfred was not to be messed with…as some would say…he was strict, stern, and thorough! He built our family home and several duplexes and was one of the most affordable landlords for single black mothers in the city. In his early days, 1950s, he was a porter for the downtown Evangeline Hotel….and oh the stories he could tell!! At home, he made the best Gumbo in town, usually starting the process around 4am! Bey is an original, that’s for sure.

 

Mom is always willing to nurture and care for others. For years, she worked at Sears and outfitted hundreds of young boys in the infamous Toughskins! Some of these now grown men still remember her. She was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, delivering dinners to the sick, elderly and shut-ins. She spent 13 years as Grand Lady at St. Anthony’s Church Ladies Auxiliary Chapter, caring for the community and creating scholarships for the youth. At home, she is a loving mother who makes the best pancakes, cornbread dressing, and pecan pralines! Her Texas sheet cake is known as “crack-cake” to many! Mom is pure love, southwest Louisiana style.

 

Together, Bey & Tot-tite’s love has endured many trials, yet they have stayed true to their vows through prayer, devotion to God and each other. As siblings, we have been blessed to have them as our parents. We strive to strengthen our bond early on Sunday mornings in our family prayer calls.

 

Wilfred and Cecile have given and demonstrated much through their love and their union. We would like Mom and Dad to experience their platinum years with a sense of ease and grace.

 

In lieu of 70th anniversary gifts, we ask those who wish to give through this GoFundMe account. All funds gifted will be about ensuring peace of mind and ease for Wilfred, currently bedridden, and Cecile, his caretaker and will be directed toward bills, caretaker support, self-care and repairs to their home.

 

We want them to hear from folks whose lives were impacted by their love and contribution to their extended family and community. Share a message for them here or in their mailbox as they celebrate 70 years of Black Love. Thank you for joining us in celebrating their platinum anniversary!