By SUE ELLEN ROSS – Staff Writer

GRAMERCY – When she was a housewife raising five children, Thekla Samrow didn’t realize she was learning valuable skills that would serve her well later in life.

The Gramercy resident was always involved in her children’s school activities, serving as vice president in the PTA organization, as well as pitching in for special holiday parties in her children’s classrooms.

These duties helped her learn patience with people of all ages, as well as developing leadership and coordination skills.

“I was fortunate to be able to stay home with my children,” she said. “Every time they needed something at school, they volunteered their mom.”

After the children were grown, Samrow’s spirit of giving naturally transferred over to her current volunteer work.

In addition to serving through the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at the St. James Senior Citizen Center in Lutcher, and St. James Historical Society, she volunteers at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Gramercy..

The great-grandmother also finds time to make “sock dolls” for the Laura Plantation Gift Shop.

“I was already volunteering at the senior center when I became aware of RSVP,” she said. “It is a wonderful organization, very appreciative of their members.”

The center welcomes various presentations on a continual basis. Medical personnel from local hospitals have discussed various health topics, and Samrow herself offers craft classes.

The projects aren’t elaborate and everyone has a good time, according to the instructor. “I enjoy this so much. I love being with people and helping them,” she said.

Her patience skills come into play during these times, and she meets the challenge well.

Another fun activity at the senior center that Samrow is involved with is the monthly birthday celebration that honors the ‘regular’ visitors.

“There are usually seven to 10 people at the birthday table,” she said. “The parish and different organizations donate gifts, bingo prizes, and cake and ice cream. St. James Parish really takes care of their senior citizens.”

Yearly trips to Texas with her husband Joseph has been on the couple’s retirement schedule, as well as visits to family members. “We belong to a rock-hunting club that meets in Needlepoint, Texas,” she said. “These are friends we have met from across the country.”

When writing her schedule, the great-grandmother also remembers to plan quality family time. This family includes sons, Joseph Jr. of Gramercy; George of New Orleans and Gregory of Baton Rouge; daughters, Kathleen of Paulina and Marie of Pearl River; 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Samrow says she thoroughly enjoys her volunteer experiences. “You don’t have to sit at home, you can stay active,” she said.

“I enjoy being with people and this has been a teaching experience for me as well.”