“My mom was a widow at 36 with six kids to raise. My mom is 83 and still mows her four acres, gardens, everything, all by herself. My mom does inspire me, the strength that she has given me and my sisters. She has taught us to be independent and to do things, to survive. She’s wonderful.” – Carla James of Florence.

James said her mom instilled in her a strong belief in faith.

“Faith. Faith in humanity. Even though we were struggling, you still gave. You still helped others. If you can help someone, you always help them,” she said.

Carla James said her mother taught her to help others in need and have faith in humanity. (Tamika Moore / People of Alabama)

James has worked in the construction industry for the past 30 years and has had to travel a lot. She says one of her favorite things about Alabama is the people.

“They’re friendly. They’re nice,” she said.

These are the faces and stories of people from all walks of life who call Alabama home. People of Alabama is a Red Clay Media and Alabama NewsCenter partnership.