Woman celebrates birthday, Mother’s Day surrounded by 117 great-great grandchildren

BEAVER DAM, Kentucky (WFIE) – A Kentucky woman celebrated not only her 104th birthday but also nearly 90 years of motherhood this past Mother’s Day.

Rava Lindsey of Beaver Dam, Kentucky was surrounded by six generations of family on Sunday as she reached both milestones.

She was just 16 years old when she had her first child. Despite her young age, the challenges brought by the Great Depression and the uncertainties of World War II, her children say she stayed strong through it all.

“I raised them the best I knew how, but God was with me,” Rava Lindsey said.

Even after more years than anyone could ever hope for with a parent, Rava’s sons and daughters visit her morning, noon and night at the Beaver Dam Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Rava Lindsey has 33 grand children, 79 great grandchildren, 117 great-great grandchildren and eight great-great-great grandchildren.

Brenda Clark, Rava’s daughter, says her mom has always been there. “I can tell her anything, and she’s just always got my back regardless,” she said.

It’s a legacy, the youngest of the 11 children, Terry Lindsey, says is one to live up to. He said both parents created a home of love.

After all of those decades of motherhood, Rave Lindsey says the key to success is no secret: “Mother is the best friend anyone can ever have.”