FAMILY FOUNDATION STORY

Cecelia Anderson Kizzie was born June 6th, 1941 to Beatrice Anderson in Monessen, Pennsylvania. As a child, Cecelia was a bright student. She was an affluent reader and writer with the most beautiful, artistic penmanship. She was recognized by her family, friends, and classmate as having excellent reading, language, and writing skills; all of which would help her progress in life and help her set an example for her children. Before she could complete high school she married Floyd Kizzie Sr., and become a mother and housewife. Cecelia was a relentlessly supportive mother of 5 children: Floyd Kizzie Jr., Valerie Joy Kizzie, Carlton J. Kizzie, Keith D. Kizzie, and Juan L. Kizzie. Though she didn't graduate from high with her classmate she later returned to her education. She completed a GED in her early 40s, enrolled in community college courses, and continued her informal education throughout her lifetime. 

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Cecelia worked her entire professional career (20+ years) at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. She was not a stranger to hard work. As the oldest sibling of 10 children, she was forced into action. She had to assist her mother with caring for her younger brothers and sisters, completing daily household chores, and preparing meals for the entire family. Her supervisors quickly learned that Cecelia was an intelligent, hard worker.  They also noticed that though she had little informal education, she had excellent reading and writing skills, far superior to those of her coworkers.  Because of her combination of gritty hard work, intelligence, and excellent language skills she was appointed Dietetic and Nutrition Services Supervisor. She met many challenges throughout her career. Her greatest challenge was to overcome envy. Because she was physically beautiful, smart, charming, and energic she didn't receive the support that some others did. Despite envy and other difficulties, she was dedicated to providing for her five children and herself. She often took on extra hours, working late at night, on holidays, and weekends and earning a little money to support her kids. Transportation was also an issue for Cecelia. When she couldn't find a ride to work, she would walk, work for 8-10 hours on her feet then walk home only to stand for hours to prepare a meal for her children.  

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Cecelia was a radiant personality. Everybody wanted to be a part of her life. Though she worked hard, she also found time to enjoy the major accomplishments of her children. Whenever graduations would occur she would throw cookouts and parties for them, to celebrate their successes. Cecelia loved to cook and enjoyed reading the Bible to her children when they were younger.  She taught her children how to cook, clean, and maintain a well-run household. Cecelia was the life of the party, loving to cook, dance, listen to music, decorate, and enjoy the company of her family and friends. Music was life to her. 

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With knowledge and experience, Cecelia gave individualized and unique advice to all of her children. She would often say to work hard, be on time, and respect authority. Family meant everything to her. She would often say "stick together and support each other" because she knew there was power in numbers. She always wanted her children to remember the importance of family and responsibility. She left them with this: love, support, and respect one another.