By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

One of our most recognized citizens is Alabaster is Micheline Cadouot Davis. Residing here since 1955, “Miche” is well-known for her lovely smile, French accent, her large family and hard work.

Davis spent 24 years at the Siluria Textile Mill, and had a stint of nearly 20 years at the probate office in Columbiana working in the recording section.

Davis was raised in Dijon, France, the second child of Henri and Blanche Cadouot. Davis endured the German occupation during World War II along with her father, step-mother and eight younger siblings. During the war, Davis met a handsome American soldier and in six months they were married and lived near Paris.

With much courage and determination, the Davis family sailed on March 24, 1948 bound for America. Davis’ young daughter Myriam contracted pneumonia so Davis (expecting again) was unable to stay with her own child during the voyage. Communication with the ship’s doctor was her only connection.

When the ship docked in New York, the family took a train to Jackson, Miss., then a bus to Magnolia, Miss. Davis’ husband was employed in the American textile industry, and his work, over the next few years took the family from Mississippi to Texas to Louisiana then back to Mississippi and finally to Siluria.

At that time Siluria, which was larger than Alabaster, consisted of a doctor’s office, drug store, train depot, hotel, dry cleaners and post office. Life was tough. Davis missed her family and did not have the opportunity or funds to return to France for 12 years.

Davis is mother of Myriam, Jimbo, Linda, Gary, Terry and Monique. She is grandmother of 10 and great-grandmother of 10.

At 89 years young, Micheline Cadouot Davis spends her days being an active member of the Joy Club, CPW, and Wisdom Class (at First Presbyterian). Other interests include Pelham Pioneers, Alabaster Senior Citizens Center and the Red Hat Society.

Davis loves traveling, and is quick to sign up for area trips. This lady is an inspiration to everyone she meets. “The Lord has been good to me,” Davis said.