One of the most amusing and beloved figures in comedy, Moms Mabley was known for her earthy humor and distinct stage persona. She captivated audiences while clad in a garish, bulky dress, delivering life lessons and her philosophies with the comedic sternness of a maternal figure lecturing her children. With raucous emphasis, Moms shared her views on love and life. She likened love to a game of checkers, wittily advising to be cautious about which man to move. Her humor touched on the changing times and her own trials in understanding them, often remarking, "Anybody who acts normal nowadays they're probably just not well!" Born Loretta Mary Aiken in Brevard, North Carolina, "Moms" experienced significant hardships early in life. She became a mother in her teens, a result of being raped twice, and gave both children up for adoption. Her father, a fireman, was killed in the line of duty, and her mother died in a tragic accident. By age 14, she was making a living in show business with no family to return to. Her stage name came from her first love, Jack Mabley. Moms Mabley carved out a career on the black vaudeville circuit, eventually performing at the Cotton Club in 1923. She became one of the first female comics to co-star at The Apollo Theater in 1939. Her signature persona, inspired by her grandmother, evolved over the years. By the time white audiences discovered her during the 1967 Harry Belafonte TV special "A Time for Laughter," she was enchanting audiences with her grandmotherly appearance and was at the peak of her career. Moms recorded numerous comedy albums, although her unique, garbled delivery was best appreciated live. Her humor, sharp and unapologetic, dispensed words of wisdom effortlessly: "My slogan is, by all means, do what you want to do. But know what you're doin'." She humorously pursued younger men with the quip, "The only thing an old man can do for me is to get on a bicycle and bring me a message from a young man!" Her personal life took a groundbreaking turn when, in later years, she lived openly as a lesbian. In 1974, Moms starred in her own film, "Amazing Grace," but the effort took a toll on her health. After suffering a heart attack, she passed away shortly after the film's release. Despite her struggles, she remained the remarkable Moms, sharing laughter and wisdom till the end. Her legacy was cemented in comedy history with her simple yet profound philosophy: "Ain't a person in the world I don't love. Nobody ever gave me nothing, and I ain't never asked, either." Her life was a testament to resilience, humor, and the enduring power of laughter.