How a mom-of-seven became everything Mother’s Day celebrates

Among these extraordinary women is 55-year-old Jean Mason-Killingbeck , a woman whose life reflects the very essence of resilience, compassion, and grace. She became a mother when she was 18 years old and went on to have six more children over the years with her late husband. 

“I was young, and I had a lot to learn, but that was the beginning of a lifelong journey of love, strength, and growth. I got married at age 39 and by then, we already had six children and out of the newborn trenches.…I had grown into myself as a woman, a mother, and a wife. Then one of my children was born in wedlock,” she said.

Even in the little things, Jean found ways to make her love lasting. “All my children bear the initials K.K.,” she shares with a smile. “It was my way of giving them something in common, a bond that connected them from birth.” It’s a small but meaningful detail that speaks volumes about the intention she poured into motherhood, always thinking ahead, always planting roots that would hold her family together.

Jean didn’t set out to be extraordinary, she simply chose to show up for her children in ways that mattered most. Whether it was making ends meet on tight budgets, staying up through sleepless nights, or offering a steady hand during life’s storms, she made motherhood look like purpose, not obligation. She described her early motherhood years as ‘challenging’ and recalls moments when she had to choose between the basic needs and wants of her family.

“While I became a stay home mom, my husband was the sole provider for our growing family. Financial pressure of living on one income household , and moments of self-doubt were constant. And being a Black mother, I had to raise my children in a world that didn’t always see their value,” said the May Pen resident, as she reflected on her motherhood journey. “I looked at their faces and knew I had to keep going. I leaned on my faith and found strength in prayer and community. When I started working, I worked multiple jobs when I had to, and made sacrifices so they could have opportunities that I didn’t have. I managed to send all my children to preparatory school and send some of them to university.”

Now grown with families of their own, her children recall a home filled with laughter, structure, and a strong support system — the kind of foundation that not only defined who they were, but inspired who they dared to become. In their mother, they saw not just a caregiver, but a compass, a counselor, and a quiet force who led by example.

The proof of Jean’s extraordinary work as a mother over the years can be seen in the shared sentiment of all her children.

“Growing up with our mother was a blessing beyond words. She raised seven of us with unwavering love, strength, and sacrifice. From our humble beginnings, she gave of herself tirelessly, ensuring we had everything we needed — often putting our needs before her own. Her faithfulness showed in the way she prioritized our education, sending us to the best schools and constantly encouraging us to aim higher, dream bigger, and never settle. Her prayers formed the foundation of our lives, guiding us through every challenge with grace. Now, as a grandmother, she continues to give with the same warmth and wisdom, and to us, she is the very definition of a hero, an exceptional mother in every sense,” shared Kerrian one of her children.

When asked what advice she would give to young, struggling mothers, Jean offered this heartfelt message: “Don’t give up. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help. Take care of your mental health, because your children need you whole. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and always believe that you are enough, even on your worst days. And remember, your love is the most powerful thing your child can have.”

As we pause to honour mothers all over the world, Jean reminds us what the day is truly about. It’s not just about the dinners and gifts, it’s the recognition of steady, quiet love that shapes lives and generations. This Mother’s Day, Old Harbour News celebrate Jean and every woman like her, for reminding us what it truly means to be a mother, providing love and care, raising children and contributing to society.