They came from humble beginnings

Could not read, write or sign their name

But their story has a happy ending

And their descendents share in their fame

 

One day they met and soon became man and wife

Yes, God brought Joseph and Fannie together

And with love and courage they started their new life

With God’s blessings and through all kinds of weather

 

Raising their family,

they encountered many crises which were a bother

Slavery with its abuse probably was the most horrific

But they stood tall and strong in their love for each other

And their lives became happy and prolific

 

Joseph and Fannie sold land and signed the deed with an X

On this land was built a school for the Colored Race in Dallas

But Joe in his more worldly aspect

Had a still and made spirits and sold them without malice

 

Fannie lovingly raised her family

Five children in all, three girls and two boys

She taught them pride, faith and humility

And they gave their parents love, respect and joy

 

From these two ancestors who were filled with devotion

Came a multitude of talent, diversity and power

We release our strength, wisdom and grace with emotion

And it soars upward to stand like a mighty steel tower

 

Yes, built within our lives to the depth our our souls

Is a tough, loving and enduring fabric of life

Instilled by Joseph and Fannie’s impeccable goals

The goals to succeed and improve, even among sorrow and strife

 

As family and descendants of this couple who were so rare

Whose threads of life run through our lives and has given us pride

With a strong, glorious history steeped in high standards and goals

We as a family must preserve these and step into the roles left us by Fannie and Joe.

 

By

Wilma Hoyle-Howell

1st family reunion in 2009