"Thank you for always putting me first. I wish I’d realized earlier in life how much you sacrificed for me to thrive. You provided for me even when it meant walking away from everything. I’ve always had exactly what I needed and I know now it’s because you went without. Thank you for giving me a sister. The work it takes to raise a child was doubled in your home, but so were my blessings. Now I’ll never walk through life without a hand to hold.

Thank you for your forgiveness on the days I wouldn’t take no for an answer. I’ve said things to you that would make any human being walk away, but you never did. Your love is unconditional. You saw the best in me when I was at my worst and I’ll never be able to understand how. I can’t give you the seamless life that you deserve but I can promise you this: If ever you lose something, I’ll be by your side to hold your hand. If ever an obstacle is in your way, I’ll stand behind to guide you. And should you fall, I will be there to catch you. Should ever you decide to walk away, I will follow. I promise every day to strive to be the best person I can be, because you didn’t raise me to be any less. Lastly, thank you for holding our family together. We need you more than you’ll ever know. "

"What does my mother mean to me? Being a mother is much more than just having a child. My mother is the breath I take, she is the next step I make, and she is the reason that I am who I am today. She is my hero!

She was diagnosed with cancer when I was pregnant with my son 32 years ago this July. Her strength, and her struggles, showed me reasons to live and enjoy life. She inspired me to enjoy all the moments that take your breath away. She is always there to share her ideas and thoughts on all my life decisions. She often says, “You will do what you want, but I am going to say what I think.” I love my mother for the gift of life and for the greatest gift of all — LOVE. When I was making the decision to work for Publix, she said you go there and you let them see the smiles and the joy that you bring to me and you will have great success!"

“Our mother means so much….she is a very strong, caring and determined person who has beat some pretty tough odds since 2004 when she was faced with making a medical decision involving surgery that would forever change her life. As a result, she has become an inspiration to so many, both young and old, with her strong will, sense of humor and continued determination. She remains very independent, enjoys doing for others, loves her family, never meets a stranger, and most of all is an amazing mother and friend. She has a beautiful smile, a love for the Lord, a caring and inviting personality, and is loved and appreciated by her family and all those who know her. We dedicate this to you and are honored to call you our loving mother and friend!”

“I can describe my mom in so many ways: inspiring, hardworking, loving, caring, and a true blessing to have in my life and as a mom. Thank you for being an incredible mother to me and my brother. It amazes me to see how strong and courageous you have been every day, especially in these past couple of years. Everything you do for your family never goes unnoticed and I’m so appreciative. God has given you an amazing path that you have been following. I always hope others see what I see of you, an overall beautiful person on the inside and out.

Thank you for everything you have done for me. I can never thank you enough! Love from your daughter Jordan ’”

“I owe my career to my mom. I had grown up shopping with my mom at her store. When I turned 16, she had me apply and I got hired at the store working with her. I owe who and what I am today because of her. She had to retire from Publix due to a car accident, but she healed from that and returned to Publix because she loved it so much. (She’s currently at #1269 as a Customer Service Staff associate.)

My mom means the world to me! She is my everything -- my mother, my mentor and my best friend. She is very caring, giving and an inspiration to my two brothers and me. As you can see in the picture she is beautiful and I adore her. I will have 29 years in June with Publix and it has been my only employer. Thank you mom. I love you”

“My mom gave up her "stay-at-home mom" status, which she loved, and began working at Publix 28 years ago so my siblings and I could attend a private school. We lived two blocks from the store and I remember, at 10 years old, riding my bike up to the store to see her. I knew someday I wanted to work at Publix just like her. Whether a cashier at that store in St. Petersburg, Florida to now being a CSM in Greenville, South Carolina, associates and customers love her! My mom’s calm, friendly and warm nature makes her easy to like…and the baked goodies she brings to work helps too! She is a great example of the kind of manager that has made Publix so successful. I am now her RIS and people often ask me if that is awkward. I answer with a resounding, "Never!" She loves me too much to ever make my job harder. In fact, she makes it easy by doing the right thing and welcoming any feedback I have to help her department.

Now, we are a family of Publix managers. Her oldest daughter is a RIS, son Paul Arms is a grocery manager at #613, Simpsonville, South Carolina, daughter Kristy McMahan is a grocery manager at #205, Easley, South Carolina, and son-in-law Matt Stephens is a customer service manager at #874, Greenville, South Carolina. And it all started with mom!”

“My mom is someone I can't describe in words. I don't know how I got so lucky to have her in my life. She is an angel sent from God and I wouldn't be the person I am today if it wasn't for her. She is one of the hardest working people I know. And I know that because I work with her at the Satellite Beach Publix. She is always trying to do her best and goes into work whenever they need a shift covered. She is always there for me and even when I'm at my lowest, she is always by my side to make me laugh again. Mom, thanks for everything you've done for me over the past 18 years. I love you so much. Happy Mother's Day!

I am so blessed to have such an amazing mom. She has taught me so much by showing unconditional love, encouragement and support throughout my entire life. She is the best listener and always gives me the best advice. She makes me laugh and I always feel better after a talk with her. My mom has been working hard at Publix for over 27 years to provide for our family and always put my needs before her own. She has encouraged and supported me while I pursued my goals. I would not have a career at Publix as an Assistant Pharmacy Manager without her. We have worked together at the same store for the last eight years. I love that I get to see my best friend every day at work and that many of our customers know both of us.

My mom has recently gone part time so that she can babysit my one month old twin girls so I am still able to work full time. I don't know what I would have done if it wasn't for her willingness to help out and give me peace of mind that my babies will be cared for by such a loving grandmother. My hope is that I can be an amazing mom like her to my daughters. ”

"Words really can’t describe my mother. My mom means the world to me. I look back a lot of time and wonder how in the world she got to be so strong with raising 11 kids plus 2 grandkids, and so many other things. Then I thought about it and she came from a family of 10 and her mom was also a strong woman. God will always give you strength to go on through no matter what. She works daily around the house after retiring from Kennestone Hospital to take care of my father until death. She kept grandkids after school every day -- always sacrificing her time for everyone no matter what! She always finds the time for talking, laughing with you, lending a helping hand, giving good advice, and is also willing to give the clothes off her back. There are so many good moments, but this one really stood out among the other ones. I will always cherish the moment with my mom the day she rushed back from Kentucky to see me in the dress she made me for my senior year prom to make sure she got a picture of me and my date, which today is the son-in-law she loves dearly. Love you mom from your daughter Cynthia!"

"On this Mother’s Day, we look to God for the right things to say. To pay tribute to our mother for she is truly a gift from God. She has to be! No one in their right mind would suffer the pain of childbirth knowing of its magnitude, surely not a man! If that’s not enough once, some mothers go through this act of love again and again! Through this sacrifice is given a gift from God. A mother’s sacrifice is not over after childbirth, it’s only just beginning. Through many sleepless nights, she awakes to nourish her child, mostly unnoticed by her husband! She is there to encourage this child when things don’t go well and there to share the joy when we’ve done something good. I think God made mothers to remind us daily of the pain and suffering His son suffered on the cross. But out of His suffering, came the product of salvation and the gift of the assurance of his resurrection! Can you see the similarities between the two? The difference is that our moms are humans and they make mistakes. But one thing is for sure – a mother’s love is never ending, just like God’s love for his children.

Please, fathers, don’t get me wrong as I’m not saying or playing our roles down, but you’ll have to admit that there is a special place you keep all your thoughts of your own mom, and that’s within your heart, right beside Jesus. Because both are always there for each of us, waiting to hear the words, “I love you,” for that’s all the praise either requires of us for their sacrifice.

Thank God for all moms, but especially for you, mom! In Christ, John D. Puette"

"I would like to pay tribute to my mom Carol for always being there for me and loving me. Though she is my mother, our relationship is as much a friendship. I am fortunate to be able to work with her five days a week in the same department at the same store. I admire her strength and sense of humor. Happy Mother’s Day! Here is a prayer for the amazing woman I’m blessed to be able to call my mother. She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!” Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. – Proverbs 31: 25-30"

When I think of you, I get this feeling of genuine care because, without a doubt, I know you’ll always be there. You are most definitely my role model; you inspire me every day just by the way you stay strong no matter what life throws your way. When I needed a lesson, your love guided me and gave me wings to help me soar.

Thank you for being there when I needed you the most. You’ve been my strength when I should’ve been yours. Thank you for always sharing your words of encouragement and for all the countless times you’ve been there for me. You’ve given me two things – one is roots and the other is wings. I’m wishing you a Happy Mother’s Day. I’m so proud I can say it to you because you definitely are my queen that makes my roses red and violets blue. I love you!

I never really understood how hard my mother worked in our #1330 Saxon Crossings Deli until I transferred back there with her. Day-in and day-out my mother gives her all to make sure everything runs smoothly and that customers are taken care of. She never falters in her optimistic attitude and continues to keep a smile on her face -- no matter what the situation. It's this constant ability to do her absolute best that makes her so easy to work with, which other co-workers have told me many times. Her can-do attitude perks everyone else up and holds us all together when times get tough back there.

A lot of people usually ask me if she's always this bubbly and amazing at home, and she is! She's been this way since day one; always caring for others needs before her own, pushing herself to her limits to ensure that everyone else is taken care of, and never complaining about having to work extra. I aspire to be like my mother when I grow up. She, in my mind, represents strength and determination. She's who you go to for guidance, advice, or sometimes a laugh. She's hardworking and focused. All of this combined is why she managed to get full-time in under a year. And shortly thereafter, it's why she was elected to be a Publix Ambassador. I couldn't imagine anyone more deserving.

And I truly think I managed to get the best mom in the world.

Ask any associate in Marketing/Creative Services who our beloved office mom is, and you’ll only hear one name: Mrs. Donna Hornsby. While everyone in our department loves Donna equally, our team feels she’s more ours than anyone else’s (although our Director, Donna’s boss, may disagree). The reason is simple: proximity. We’re the Creative Studio Team, and we have the pleasure of sitting closest to Donna. This means we can’t escape Donna’s lovely, unique, and yes, booming voice.

Throughout each day, countless associates approach Donna with problems and requests only she can solve. They return to their workspaces and await word that their wishes have been granted. Not us. We’re comfortably in range to hear how Donna does her magic. It’s like a special peek into how a beautiful Chantilly Cake is made: arduous and artful. Donna works the phones with the grace, authority, and savvy of a White House Chief of Staff… or a mom. And just like moms, she’s uniquely gifted at getting her “kids” what they need and want.

Yes, we’re spoiled. Donna also excels as a part-time therapist, a world-class cheerleader, a patient teacher... and she’s even known for giving amazing hugs. Inspiringly, Donna excels as our office mom while caring for two young, active boys at home. It’s hard to say if Donna is a better office mom or real mom. She may just be perfect at both!

My mother passed away on July 28, 2015 at the age of 90. She and my Dad raised me and my nine siblings (yes -- 10 children).

As this is the first year of my life without her on Mother’s Day it will be a bit emotional as we celebrate. My Mother raised the 10 best children that ever graced the surface of this Earth, (according to her). They were all good children, and when they did make mistakes or get into trouble, it was not particularly their fault. There was always an evil outside presence to blame.

During the times when we encountered the normal injuries, sicknesses, and everyday trials and tribulations of growing up, she was always at our side sacrificing the time and the effort to make us well, or to eliminate whatever crisis that may have befallen us. No words can describe the way she cared for, nurtured, and defended her children. She also provided adequate corporal punishment as needed. Throughout her life she daily showed us the strengths and taught us the lessons that we would need to survive in this life. Her mothering efforts helped each of us to develop the courage and resolve to face any challenge that might come our way, no matter what the obstacle. She led by example and loved her children unconditionally.

While I only received 1/10 of the available love from my Mother, it was more than enough to last my entire lifetime. Happy Mother’s Day Mama!

My mother is the most incredible woman I know; raised me with care, taught me most of what I know, never failed pushing me forward with anything I do, and she taught me to believe in myself and never give up. Debbie will be a Publix employee for 8 years in June. Within those years, she always put her 100% into her work. That’s one thing about my mother; she is far from a quitter. She is a hard worker and takes initiative in her work no matter the circumstances.

She is a remarkable woman who praises Publix and respects everything about our vision. You may not see Debbie at times, but if you walk around the isles you will most likely hear her singing the music on the stores playlist while stocking shelves. Debbie is one of the most positive, happy people I know. She never fails to make me smile while I’m bagging in customer service with funny faces if I’m having a bad day. Debbie loves her job, loves every single coworker, and loves her son dearly; seeing that smile or hearing that joyful laugh you can never question that about her.

So - Happy Mother’s Day, and I thank you for all you’ve done for me and also for always believing in me. I love you with everything in me. I couldn’t have asked for a better mother in the world.

My mother means the world to me, and she is my greatest inspiration. I was diagnosed five years ago with Type 2 Diabetes. I realized then that I needed to make a lot of changes in my life. My mom started running with my sister, Amy Barnett, a few years prior of me finding out I have diabetes. I started going to the gym every day for a year and I saw no improvement and knew I needed to do something different. I thought of my mom and sister, and about all of their races and medals. I decided to give running a try. I was getting ready to attempt my first 5k. My doctor at the time told me I couldn't do it and that I'd never be able to cross the finish line. I think about how many steps I've taken and all the finish lines I have crossed because of my mom's and sister's inspiration. The pounds really started to melt off - 85 pounds!!! We love doing 5k's together and have a blast!!! Now I have my own "running bling!" My mom gave me a running ID bracelet that says, "Never Give Up!" I keep going even on my bad days and always think of her when I run. I am getting ready to do my first half marathon with my sister, and my mom will be there to cheer me on.

Without her love, support, and encouragement, I would not be the strong, determined woman that I am today. Thank you mom! I love you so much! HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!! NEVER GIVE UP!!!

When God chose you as my Mother, he knew that you would be the Best one for me; opening my spiritual eyes to the world of life that many others are unable to see. You have given me love, strength, courage and wisdom to endure the challenges that have come my way.

So, if I had to pick my own mother, you would be my #1 choice on any given day. You taught me to be independent and to stand tall on my own so I wouldn’t have to depend on others. Your unconditional love has made me a woman who knows how to act and treat people with respect -- a characteristic trait I will not regret. We laugh together like school girls and talk for hours at a time; each moment is priceless to me, but it hasn’t cost a dime.

I am so blessed and thankful to dedicate this poem to you, especially knowing what you have always done for me and others to make our lives feel fresh and new. Every day is special to me as I try to show you in what I do or say. With this I send my gratitude and love, and I wish you a HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

As she and I got older, we made countless trips to the beach, picking up sea shells in different shapes and colors, watching those little birds with the skinny legs scoop up their next meal when the tide would come in and go back out. I learned to fish, she could only shake her head when I actually caught one and could not understand why I didn't want to eat it. I would tell her "he or she" has a family and needs to go back home. Mom loved to travel and as I got older, she introduced me to different countries where I learned about different types of food -- how they bought it or caught it; how it was cooked or wasn't cooked; different types of clothing and what each colored garment represented; learned about housing, some people have indoor plumbing like you and me, and some don't. My mom made learning fun.

At one point, I get to turn the tables on her. I had a meeting in Orlando, Florida and took her with me. I had a free day and spent it at Discovery Cove. I love dolphins and whales and signed up to learn about both (out there in the water). I took my mom with me --- and her words to me before we left Birmingham were, "Do not leave me out for I want to do it too." And, she did at age 88. Our dolphin was named Jenny and she had her "child" with her. I never could have envisioned what my dolphin experience would be like that day -- both moms connected. Mom talked to Jenny, told her if she would flip over on her back, she would rub her tummy and Jenny flipped over. When mom stopped, Jenny would use one of her flippers to splash water on mom! I would not trade that day for anything.

Mom was known for her homemade brownies, pound cakes, green bean casseroles, potato salad, and her fried chicken. If a neighbor or a friend had a birthday, was sick, or fell on hard times, my mom was right there to help them feel better with a meal, a cake, or a batch of brownies. I often hear what a wonderful cook and good friend my mom.

I do know, my mom has always been my mom first and my best friend, not just on Mother's Day, but all year round. I let her know every day how thankful I was that I had her for my mom.

They say “Food Is Love” and no one celebrated that notion better than my mother. She loved food and everything it involved, from harvest to table. When we were little, Mum didn’t have a very big food budget. However, our plates were always full and well-balanced, the variety endless. We did tend to occasionally protest the dinner menu, though, especially on nights when she’d enthusiastically declare: I’m trying a new recipe. “What is it?” we dared ask. “It’s an experiment.” Groan… We pretty much knew we’d be staring at something concocted by a mad scientist locked up in a test kitchen, and we definitely knew it would be weird. Another safe bet was that it would likely involve ground beef, the cheapest of cuts. But, weird or not, she’d present the meal like a gift while trying to convince us how wonderful it was going to be. Under award-winning protest, we’d relent and dig in.

But then a miracle would happen. That totally weird, mad scientist, ground beef concoction was actually pretty good. And why was it good? Because she made it with love. That secret ingredient that could turn anything, even cheap chopped meat, into manna from heaven is what made it so satisfying and we gobbled it up like a band of jackals. So this is the lesson, one among many, which I have learned from my dear mother. Food really is love and when you give love, you get a bounty in return.

I was so excited to learn that Publix was FINALLY coming to Knoxville that I could not wait to apply! My mother was even more excited about it than I was! While raising five children, my mother worked for Publix starting in Sunrise, Florida.

For the next 35+ years, several departments, lots of store locations, and so many different uniform styles, she was ready to enjoy the long sought after days of retirement in Palm Beach, Florida, and finally to the mountains of West Virginia. My mom loved what Publix stood for, what Publix promised for her, and for her family. She was a part of growing Publix into the ‘Premier Grocery Store’ that it is known for today. Along with her dedication to hard work for all of those years, she was a huge benefactor of the benefits that Publix graciously offered to their employees.

I’m honored to say: I get to be just like my mom, who taught me to work hard and enjoy what I’m doing, and then great things will come my way. I am doing my part proudly as I honor her every day I walk through the doors at my Publix #1416, Knoxville, Tennessee. Love and miss you Mom.

What does my mother mean to me? For several reasons, she means the world to me. She has shown me how to be a hard worker, to never give up, and to do whatever it takes to provide for your family. My mom started her career at Publix as an entry level employee, but with her hard work and dedication, she has just completed her 16th year with the company. As a single mother of three kids, she made ends meet while we were growing up, by working three jobs just so we could participate in extracurricular activities! Even after working long hours during the day, she was front and center at all my softball games cheering me on. As I became an adult, she made sure that I was able to attend and graduate college, which is something she never had the opportunity to do. My mother wants nothing but the best for me and my siblings ever since the day we were born, and now she is able to be that same role model for my children as their “Gigi.” Happy Mother’s Day to the greatest mom and Gigi in the world. Nevaeh, Anthony and I love you!

Growing up I can never recall a day where my Mom missed work. She instilled this and many other values in her two daughters. My sister, Amy Gibson, has worked for Publix Printing Services for 18 years. I am an Assistant Store Manager and have worked for Publix for 16 years. My Mom is a jack of all trades. She is a provider, nurturer, handyman, gardener, seamstress, nurse, psychologist, tutor, taxi driver, lawn mower repair woman, carpenter, little league baseball fan -- just to name a few. There is nothing that she cannot do. She always said, "Don't ever pay someone to do something that you can do yourself." She taught me to always do the right thing and to put others before myself. She never misses her grandson's baseball games and dotes on them and her children EVERY chance she gets. I could go on and on about the greatness of my mother. Happy Mother's Day Mom!

My mother is 93 years young. She raised five children, has 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. She lived when times were hard but didn’t let it get the best of her or turn her bitter. She is the most easy going and loving mother any one could ask for. She was never sick or if she was, never let us kids see her feeling bad. That is why, when she was in her late 80s and diagnosed with breast cancer, it caused a ripple effect within our family and how each of us handled it. Of course, being mom, she handled it like she had handled things all her life, with an outlook of, “What the heck…let’s get it done and get on with our business.” She underwent a full mastectomy and was released the same day from the hospital, then returned to the hospital a few weeks later and had to have more surgery to remove lymph nodes. But in no time, she was back on her feet, doing things allowed by her physician and not complaining about pain or any inconveniences in her life. I am so proud to call her my mom. She is my hero, my mentor and my dearest friend and I love her with all my heart. Also, as you will notice from the picture, she has a great sense of humor. We were going to her Sunday School’s Christmas party which happened to be a pajama party and she told everyone she was going to wear her teddy. Well, that she did.

Are you two siblings? Is he your younger brother? Come on -- you’re too young to have a son that old! These are questions and exclamations that we have heard during my entire existence – at least after I got old enough to look like I was her brother instead of her son.

Well, her answer to those comments are: no, no, and yes I know! She’s the strongest and the sweetest lady I know. Life hasn’t always been bright and things have been less than ideal at times, but we have always pulled through. Against many odds and many doubts with a lot of perseverance she has worked really hard to set a great example for her children. Her dedication, honesty and loyalty to everything she does is a huge motivation for me to do better every day. She is simply awesome! To write about your mom hundreds of miles away is not an easy thing do without getting a little choked up because she is simply the best mom in the world. Well, now you may be thinking “Huge momma’s boy here!” and I’m thinking “No! Well, yeah and there’s nothing wrong with that!”

Well, I’m not very expressive when it comes to feelings, so this may be a surprise to her… Mami, te quiero mucho!!!

It has been a year and a half now since my beautiful wife Amanda has become a mother to a handsome smart little boy named Levi. I knew I loved Amanda with all my heart the day we got married. But the day she became a mother - and made me a father - I realized it was possible to love her even more. She is the most caring, patient and kind mother to our son and I. If you ever met Levi, even though he can’t speak yet, you would notice immediately that the love he has for his mommy is undeniable.

Amanda - Levi & I wish you a Happy Mother’s Day! Thanks for all you do for us! We love you!

I would like to place a tribute in for the world’s greatest mom. I know it was not easy raising 3 kids on a $14,000 salary with no government assistance. My mom was the sole breadwinner in my family. She was my mother and my father all wrapped into one. She also was my teacher, my pastor, my counselor, and my best friend.

My mom died in 1995, a month before Christmas. Her love for me and my two siblings more than made up for the materialistic things we never had. I acknowledge her for her love, dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to be the very best mom anyone could ask for. Her baby boy was the first to graduate college and has a prosperous career with Publix.

I would like my mom to know that I love her from here to the end of the Earth. I feel that I'm the luckiest daughter alive to have such a wonderful, beautiful, loving and caring mother. There's nothing you wouldn't do for me. You're the reason I'm here at Publix for over 20 years and I want to say thank you for everything you have ever done for me in life. You are such an inspiration to me. I strive to be half the woman you are. I Love you mom.

My mother raised four children mostly on her own. My father was a chef in the merchant marines for close to 20 years and was rarely home as we grew up. Raising two boys and two girls, our mother had to be not only strict and strong, but also loving as well. Mother raised us in the church and taught us to value family and friends, and to respect all others as well. We learned to treat everyone as we would want to be treated. She worked for the Mobile School System for over 20 years as a bus driver while raising us, yet she still found time to be very active in the church. She serves as a Sunday school teacher, director of Wednesday night services and active member of the Ladies Willing Workers for the church. She spent most of her life touching the lives of others and passed in on to us.

I am thankful that I knew her, and I’m proud to say that she was my mother. Here is the poem I wrote in tribute to her on the morning we buried her: In God’s arms she did live, to all our faults she did forgive, when we were down and hurt, she wiped our tears with her skirt. With not a bad worked to say, she walked in God’s love every day. When anyone needed her, she was always there to make it better with a mother’s care. Even though we loved her so, to Jesus she had to go. In God’s arms we do commend, for loving everyone was her biggest sin.