RIP Mommy - Co-Founder of Monif C. Passes
I've been trying to figure out a fitting tribute to my mother, Sheila Elaine Clarke, who passed on November 10, 2009, but nothing I can do will ever equate to what she has given me and countless others.
When I told my mom back in 2004 that I wanted to start Monif C., she didn't even blink, she told me go for it. What we (the Monif C. team) do with this business on a daily basis is truly a testament to God's plan and her push, encouragement, blood, sweat, and tears. I remember my mother and I dragging 50 pound bolts of fabric down NYC's 7th Avenue, pushing our way through doors trying to get people to understand the Monif C. vision, going to countless shopping events and fashion shows, and staying up until 5am shipping boxes of customer orders. Every accomplishment this business has had is as much her gain as mine, and I am so sad to know that she won't be here in the flesh to see Monif C. go
to higher and higher realms.
Like I said, I don't know yet what is a fitting tribute to my mom, but I will start with something small.
RIP Mommy, I love you.
Comments
Ashley | Nov 24, 2009 @ 5:40 PM
I’m so sorry to hear about your mother. Just remember her as being a positive influence on your life. That will be tribute enough.
Crystal | Nov 24, 2009 @ 7:17 PM
What a moving and beautiful tribute - just like your Mother.
Please let us know if you need anything.
Sending you love, light and prayers.
Coretta | Nov 24, 2009 @ 8:12 PM
What a remarkable tribute to your mom she looks beautiful, may God give you the strength to continue to build and grow and you must know your mom may not be here physically but she is watching and smiling with the angels above.
Ellarose | Nov 24, 2009 @ 8:13 PM
Know that you mother will always be there with you…..always.
I will keep you and your family lifted.
Melissa | Nov 24, 2009 @ 11:11 PM
Monif, if your mother was anything like you she was a truly beautiful person inside and out. It just shows us to be thankful for the time that we do have. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless and Keep you in His perfect peace.
Djinefa | Nov 25, 2009 @ 1:32 AM
My condolensces to you Monif I know that you must have made her so proud that you both brought this vison to life I hope that God continually blesses you…Thank you for creating and establishing you vision..- Djinefa
Lauren | Nov 25, 2009 @ 9:49 AM
My condolences to both you and your family. Not only did you lose a mother, you lost a friend you is now watching over you and encouraging you to continue your dream. Nothing can equate to what she has given so in honor of your mother, follow your heart. What was her style of wear? She would love that Monif. I love that fact that you started this business so that plus size females could feel sexy and content again. What’s even cooler is that you are a Clarke and Clarke’s always succeed. I love you and remember that your mother will always be with you now in spirit!
PPSF Modeling | Nov 25, 2009 @ 11:01 AM
Monif, your mother left you such a legacy of hard work, dedication and success!! She is always with you and has never left your side.
Know that your business will go to heights you never dreamed. I pray that God will continue to comfort you during this difficult time of loss.
Thank you for showing the world that full figured divas are absolutely gorgeous with your clothing line!!
I hope that we will get an opportunity to meet soon.
God Bless!!
Lisa Harden
Zara | Nov 25, 2009 @ 12:21 PM
Monif, may God continue to bless you and your family. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Your mother will always be with you and I know she was proud of all your hard work and you yourself! Continue to make her proud!
Monif C | Nov 25, 2009 @ 1:23 PM
Awww ladies, you all are so sweet, thanks so so much for all these kind words. This really helped brighten my day, and my mom would be so proud to hear you guys say such wonderful things about her and Monif C. My customers are the BEST! Love to all of you!
Julie G, | Nov 25, 2009 @ 3:25 PM
Monif, Please keep looking up - for Mum is there watching over you, always. You must continue doing well for she was so, so proud of your accomplishments. We are always here for you and the family. Love to all. God Bless!!!
enuka | Nov 26, 2009 @ 5:22 AM
Kindly accept my condolences. It is never easy to lose a loved one.
Regards.
Judy lynton | Nov 27, 2009 @ 10:51 PM
Be strong and know that God will be on ur side and that is what ur mom will want u to know. LOVE U
Jennifer | Nov 30, 2009 @ 4:55 AM
I am sorry to read of your loss. Your Mother seemed like a remarkable woman and so influential in your life and business. She was a true beauty and it is reflected in the woman you have become. My thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of sorrow. ((hugs))
TroJah | Nov 30, 2009 @ 2:11 PM
Wow. We see where you get your beauty from. You have my deepest sympathy. My mom also plays a huge role in helping me with my dream and I can’t imagine her not being here. To know that THIS is your reality I don’t think there are really words any of us ladies can speak to ease the pain in your heart. Just know that God CAN and WILL take care above and beyond your immediate needs and circumstances. God Bless
Jamila | Nov 30, 2009 @ 3:23 PM
Monif, My sincere condolences to you and your sister. I’ve had the opportunity to meet your mom a few times when I’ve come into the shop. She was, no doubt, an awesome lady! With Love.
Lesley | Nov 30, 2009 @ 3:34 PM
Like you, I am a woman of Bajan roots. I know that we are brought up to share a special bond with our mothers. While your mom may not be here in the flesh, remember she will always be with you and guiding you in your journey. I pray that during this time you and your family find peace and comfort in all of your memories of her!
Take care and God Bless you all.
Kay | Nov 30, 2009 @ 4:05 PM
Monif, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Your mother was beautiful and clearly left a legacy worth leaving. I pray God’s continued comfort and blessings to you and yours.
Seleta | Nov 30, 2009 @ 9:36 PM
Monif you are in my prayers! I remember when I came into your store and met your mom. She was incredibly helpful and it was very obvious how proud she was of you when talking about you and the fashions. I pray for you strength, faith and love. God Bless.
Sylvia | Nov 30, 2009 @ 11:27 PM
My condolences to you and your family..I will continue to uplift you in prayer…God Bless!!!
Cecilia | Dec 1, 2009 @ 1:32 PM
Sorry to hear about your loss and i know how you feel because i lost my mother 22 years ago and it still seems like yesterday, i miss her dearly but there’s one thing for sure that i want ever forget and that is, what she taught and instilled in me, with me having that i will surely survive in life.
Fabby | Dec 2, 2009 @ 1:58 PM
Hi Monif, I just wanted to offer you my sincerest condolences to you and your family. My dad passed away in September of this year, so I know what you are going through. All I can offer is that when one life fades a new life begins. You get to live on and you will always have the embrace of your mom’s memory to keep you strong. My prayers are with you.
Hillerie Camille | Dec 3, 2009 @ 12:22 AM
Monif, I’m just reading about your mother, and I wanted to send you my love. I wish for you the peace that passes understanding. You will be in my prayers.
Shantel | Dec 3, 2009 @ 1:23 PM
Peace, Love, & Light to you beautiful!
Hidi | Dec 8, 2009 @ 2:22 PM
I am sorry for your loss and you and your family are in my prayers. I know she is watching over you and smiling at her beautiful daughter who chose to follow her heart and create beautiful clothes for full figured women. :)