A Legacy of Love, Strength, and Resilience
On May 17, 2024, my world changed forever when I lost my beloved mother, Agnes Paula Marks, after a courageous six-month battle with oral, head, and neck cancer. My mother was not just a parent; she was the heartbeat of our family, the glue that held us together, and a source of unwavering support for everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born on January 26, 1954, in Grand Coteau, Louisiana, my mother was the cherished daughter of Peter Clay Eaglin and Agnes Lemelle. She later moved to New Orleans, where she met her first husband, William Clifford Smith Jr. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Monique and Veronique, who became the lights of her life. Eventually, my mother found love again with Joseph Harris Marks in Houston, Texas, where they had me, Consetta, or “Connie” as she affectionately called me.
My mother was a woman of remarkable strength and grace. A devoted matriarch, she was the proud grandmother of ten and great-grandmother of six. Family was her world, and she took immense joy in every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was also a supportive and loving aunt, sister, cousin, and friend, known for her generous spirit and unwavering support.
But beyond her role in our family, my mother was a pillar of her community. She dedicated years to running a small business, through which she became a beloved staple in the community. Her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to service touched the lives of many, forming lasting bonds and leaving a significant impact on all who knew her.
When my mother was diagnosed with oral, head, and neck cancer, our family faced a battle that we never anticipated. For six months, she fought with all the strength and determination that she had shown throughout her life. Despite the pain and challenges, she remained resilient, always thinking of her family and those she loved. Unfortunately, even the strongest warriors sometimes face battles they cannot win, and on that fateful day in May, my mother peacefully passed away at the age of 70.
In the wake of her passing, I knew I had to do something to honor her memory and ensure that her legacy of love, kindness, and dedication lived on.
That’s why I created the PAULA Foundation – to bring awareness to oral, head, and neck cancers, to support patients and families who are fighting similar battles, and to memorialize those who, like my mother, have lost their fight.
The PAULA Foundation is not just a tribute to my mother; it is a way to connect with others who are experiencing the same heartache, to offer them the support they need, and to raise awareness about these devastating cancers. My hope is that through this foundation, we can help others detect cancer early, provide them with the resources they need, and ultimately save lives.
My mother’s legacy is one of love, strength, and resilience. She touched so many lives, and through the PAULA Foundation, I am committed to continuing her work in supporting families, educating the public, and fighting against oral, head, and neck cancers. I invite you to join us in this mission – together, we can make a difference and honor the memory of all those who have been affected by this disease.
In loving memory of my mother, Agnes Paula Marks – your fight inspires our mission, and your love fuels our determination. You will never be forgotten.