Folly Matriarch Mama Flo is A true ‘Folly Angel’
The day was Black Friday 2015, and instead of engulfing myself in the crazy consumerist carnival, I had a visit with someone who is the embodiment of everything opposite. Florence O’Donnell, affectionately known as “Mama Flo,” has five children and three grandchildren (including city councilman D.J. Rich), but is also arguably matriarch for the entire island.
She was just winding down from a big Thanksgiving Day potluck she organizes that was served out of Planet Follywood for the whole community. She is also the organizer for the Folly Angels, a non-profit group dedicated to helping Folly residents who have cancer, or are in need in any way. Her passion for giving back to the community was evident when we sat down for a little Q & A.
Miranda Jordan: How did you first find your way to Folly Beach, and how did you start the tradition of feeding everyone on the holidays?
Mama Flo: I’m originally from Philadelphia, and my ex-husband was transferred here during the 60’s when he was in the Navy, and I’ve been here ever since. When I first came here as a Navy wife, the holidays where hard, I would boo-hoo it up at the bars because I couldn’t go home. One year a friend said “stop whining, we’ll do Thanksgiving right here,” and that’s what started it. As long as I’m alive, we will continue the tradition.
MJ: What is your favorite thing about the island?
MF: I like the easy pace of living. A lot has changed out here since I first came, but a lot has also stayed the same. It’s a small community and everyone cares about one another. I really can’t imagine living anywhere else.
MJ: Other than Follywood, where is your favorite place to eat on Folly?
MF: To be honest I really eat everywhere, I like it all. I enjoy having breakfast at Rita’s or Locklear’s, and I love sitting at the Tides for the view. We are lucky to have some really great chefs out here.
MJ: What is one thing your neighbors would be surprised to know about you?
MF: People are surprised to find out how much I read. I love books! Right now I’m reading a mystery by J. A. Jance, and of course a cookbook. My favorite author is Kipling.
MJ: How did the Folly Angels get started?
MF: It was started in the 90s, and inspired by Oprah Winfrey’s Angel Network. I thought “we can do that right here on Folly.” In addition to helping our residents battling cancer all year long, we also help whoever needs it during the holidays. We can give assistance with groceries, gifts, whatever is needed. I want to make sure that especially this year, with so many people impacted by the flooding, that everyone gets the help they need.
We have a great system, all three churches cooperate and have pantries, so there is no reason for anyone to ever need food on this island. I don’t want any child to be forgotten, and if there is someone with cancer that we don’t know about, or anyone that needs help, we need to know who you are!
Anyone interested in receiving assistance from or making a donation to the Folly Angels can reach them at PO Box 1699, or you can email me at mirandaalicejordan@gmail.com and I will get you in touch.
Happy Holidays, everyone!
