Remembering Our Ancestors

Echoes of Generations: A Legacy Unveiled

On a chilly December day in Cleveland, Ohio, I find myself surrounded by memories, contemplating the timeless tales of my ancestors and their lives on Westchester Ave and E.105th. The bitter wind serves as a poignant reminder as I sift through old belongings, pondering their significance and the narratives they hold.

As I reflect on the traditions of the past, my mind turns to the local yard sales and give-away tables that were a hallmark of my Lott family's history—a testament to the ethos of sharing, giving, and letting go of items whose time has come.

Tomorrow marks the 19th anniversary of the passing of Orland Jefferson Jones, my paternal grandfather. His memory is not only a somber reflection but also an occasion to celebrate a Distinguished Gentleman whose impact resonates through the generations.

In the inaugural edition of a weekly dedication series, I pay tribute to my own mother, Linda Jones nee’ Rox. Her unwavering strength, love, and guidance have been the bedrock of our family, shaping our destinies with her indomitable spirit.

And then, in a solemn remembrance that spans over five decades, I honor Littie Daniel nee’ Sanders. Fifty-one years have passed since her departure, yet her legacy endures, leaving an indelible mark on our family's history.

A poignant visual accompaniment to these reflections is a picture of my grandmother, Susie D Rox. Using an Ancestor filter, I resurrected an image of her mother, capturing the essence of the time between 1892 and 1920 in Perry County, Alabama. In this visual journey through time, I glimpse the faces that paved the way for my existence, connecting the threads of the past to the present.

*** As the cold winds of December sweep through Cleveland, Ohio, I am reminded that our lives are a tapestry woven with the stories of those who came before us. In this season of reflection, I honor the memories of Orland Jefferson Jones, Linda Jones nee’ Rox, and Littie Daniel nee’ Sanders—a tribute to the rich legacy they bestowed upon us and a pledge to carry their stories forward for generations to come.