We Make a Difference in Our Community

Ida Mae was a resident and proud homeowner in Castalia Heights located in Memphis, TN. She was the only single parent on her block of the newly built community in the late 1950's. This was an accomplishment she was very proud of. Forced to quit school before receiving a high school diploma, she worked two, sometimes three, jobs to raise her four children and maintain her home. She was a licensed beautician that went on to retire from the Mid-South Naval Base in Millington, TN after 30-years of service. Once retired, she dutifully raised her three young grandsons until they graduated from high school. Ida Mae was the glue that held her family together and she made sure that her offspring maintained a strong family bond. 

​

Ida Mae was a woman with a sharp tongue and a heart of gold who was best known as a hard worker and an excellent cook. Although up in age, she would oftentimes be seen taking her elderly neighbors to their doctor's appointments and/or the grocery store. She unselfishly donated a large portion of her retirement earnings each month to a host of national and local charities. The IdaMae Family Foundation was founded by her children and grandchildren in her honor to continue her legacy of giving back to others less fortunate and to serving the needs and strengthening the community of Castalia Heights and surrounding areas.

​

Ida Mae 1926-2008