My name is Bonnie Mills Spearman. I am 87 years old, and I was raised in Swainsboro. I had four sisters and six brothers, that means eleven children. My parents were Ralph and Kate Mills.
When I was little, we lived on a farm. We had chickens, rabbits, hogs, cows, dogs and cats. We had most every kind of vegetable there was. I never went hungry or without. I remember riding in the back of the wagon dragging my bare feet in the dirt, making candy at syrup cooking’s, grinding cane, peanut boils and hog killings and barbecues where the whole county would come. I remember family reunions where all family, aunts, uncles and cousins would not dare miss. I remember going to school and trading my big old biscuit with country ham from the smoke house for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. I remember being taught to make up after fights with my brothers and sisters “even if it was with teeth gritting” saying I love you. I was taught right from wrong, or it was a peach tree switch. We were considered poor people back then. I never considered myself anything but blessed. I still do. I had a great family, and I felt loved. I remember my mom sitting by the fireplace reading the Bible to us. I believe in God. I remember being baptized at the First Baptist Church in Swainsboro.
My little brother, Otis, died in 1942, and was buried somewhere else. I was very young. I left Swainsboro at a young age, married and had five children of my own. I helped raise my husband's two brothers and sister and adopted two, so mom upped me by one, I only raised ten.
We always went to the cemetery on visits home. One day Mom said ‘Bonnie, I need you to make me a promise. I was never able to move Otis here with us, so will you do that for me?” I did that many years ago. The grave could not be found but a memorial reading “In memory of” and where he was buried was put there.
Families of today have split and don’t have time or take it. What will be their “Good ole days” I am so thankful for mine.
This year on Aug 22, my mom will be 124 years old in heaven. She was born in 1900. So, I decided what better gift than a memorial for all her children. All my family that is buried there have slabs, all others have “In memory of '' and tell where they are buried.
My family will all be remembered in the City of Swainsboro Cemetery, section A, Mills Plots. A place that is kept beautiful thanks to the people responsible. Our plot is full so to All family members, grands and greats and for years to come, please visit. There is no fence, gate or permission needed, and this was done with no ugly feelings, only love for my family.
I know I have done what my parents wanted me to do. I am at peace. I hope all of you are.
