By Anir Senyah
The New Citizens Press
Left: Standing, Edna Butler (daughter), far left, Sonya Butler (daughter-in-law), middle, Estellar Butler (Mom Butler), far right, Pierre V. Butler, grandson
LANSING, MI — Mother’s Day will be here soon and it is the perfect time to show appreciation for your mother or any woman who has been like a mother to you.
There are some who say that Estellar Butler (Mom Butler) is a Christian mother to many and has touched their lives in ways that are too numerous to mention.
The name “Estellar” means unique and original. According to Names and Faces, Inc. those with the name Estellar are unusually even tempered and conform to a higher standard.
Mom Butler, as she is more affectionately know was born Estellar Brooks on March 8, 1910 to sharecroppers in Meadville, MS.
Mom Butler said she has been working hard her whole life, beginning with her married life with her husband, Dave Butler on October 7, 1933 .
Between 1933 and 1963, Mom Butler traveled the roads with her husband working different jobs, including road construction.
Mom Butter has seen many technology changes since 1910, during a time when there were no computers or cell phones.
Elaine Branklin said, "Mom Butler is alert and 95 years young," she said. "She shares her wisdom, kindness, love and patience. She comforts anybody and everybody with her beautiful and radiant smile that lights up any room."
Branklin added, “Mom Butler is a mother to those who have lost their own.”
Denise Wilson, a friend of the family, said she has lived in the same neighborhood with Mom Butler for almost 30 years.
She added, “God blesses with us with special people in our lives for special reasons. She is very kind and continually offers uplifting words of encouragement and wisdom.
Since retiring, Mom Butler has done some day care work. Many of the young men and women have moved on with their lives. They have gone to college and have obtained jobs but most of them still take time to stay in contact with Mom Butler.
Her daughter, Edna Butler said, “Mom is my everything. Mom is not only the backbone of our family but she is ready and willing to help anyone in need. She feeds the hungry, encourages and prays for and with those in need and finds much joy in giving.”
Pierre V. Butler said that his grandmother is the leader through the wilderness. Butler added, “She has always provided a beacon of light for all around her to follow.”
Mom Butler said that the secret to life is not letting any situation get the best of her because she firmly believes the Lord will make a way.
She has been a faithful member of Pilgrim Rest Church located at 5200 Pleasant Grove Road in Lansing, MI. Serving on the Mother Board, Mission and Usher Ministry has been a source of inspiration for her.
In rearing her children, Mom Butler said the most important thing was they were productive residents and love the Lord.
