Born on a cold day in 1946 in the Tennessee highlands, a little girl—one of twelve siblings—entered the world surrounded by love despite hardship. Her siblings thought she was the most beautiful baby of them all, and their close-knit bond carried the family through tough times.

Though she often spoke of growing up poor, neighbors said her family’s situation was similar to others in the community. She credits her success to her mother’s creativity and spirituality and her father’s business sense, believing she inherited the best of both.

From a young age, she sang in church and displayed resilience. She also expressed herself through unique clothing, inspired by a colorful local model, even when criticized by her father and grandfather. Continues…