Aunt Alma "Mandy" Richardson Gordon Story

Alma "Mandy" Richardson Gordon

Alma "Mandy" Richardson Gordon was born on the 10th day of 1909 in St. Helena, Louisiana to Thomas and Emma Vining Richardson Williams and died on July 20, 1987. She is my maternal great-aunt. All of her nieces and nephews called her Aunt Mandy. Aunt Mandy had three other siblings born to Thomas and Emma. Her siblings were Josephine Richardson Harrell, Alexander Thomas Richardson, and Rosabel Richardson Moore. 

Her second marriage was to Jim Williams, with whom she had four children, Jimmy Williams, Victoria Dorothy Williams, Arthur Williams, and Ethel Williams Temple. Before moving to Tangipahoa Parish, they lived in St. Helena, Louisiana. 

She met and married Willie Kiddes Gordon, Sr. They were the proud parents of James. E. Gordon, Willie K. Gordon, Jr.,Min. Adam Gordon, Robert Gordon, Sr., Elder Frank Gordon, and Barbara Jean Payne. She was called MaMe by her grandchildren. She was the State President of the Home and Foreign Mission Department of The Churches of God in Christ Eastern Jurisdiction.

Our family often talks about Aunt Mandy's delicious homemade cakes. Especially her jelly and coconut cakes. She was a strong leader and role model for her family. She was known for her unconditional love and generosity. She was respected and admired by all who knew her and her family who adored her. She wore beautiful hats and dresses and carried a purse on her arm. 

Aunt Mandy enjoyed visiting her sisters Josephine and Rosabelle. My aunts Ethel and Dorothy died before I was born. It is only through the family that I remember hearing about them. Aunt Mandy and her husband remained in Amite and raised their family. My grandmother and grandfather raised their family in Amite as well.  New Orleans became home to Rosabelle and Ethel. The matriarchs of our family are very dear to our hearts and we cherish their sweet memories We try to emulate their example of strength and character. We remember them fondly as we share stories of their kindness. They are a source of pride for our family and a reminder of our bonds.

Mr. Willie K. Gordon, Sr. and his wife 
Alma "Mandy" Richardson Gordon