In this deeply moving edition of “Memories of My Dear Mother,” SwagHer Magazine sits down with RaShonda Flowers — a powerhouse CEO, mother, and motivator whose story is rooted in love, resilience, and legacy. Raised by her grandmother but surrounded by the vibrant presence of her mother, Veronica “Peachy” Barr, RaShonda’s journey is one of strength and heartfelt reflection. Through laughter-filled memories, moments of deep grief, and an unshakable drive to live a life her mother would be proud of, RaShonda shares how she transformed pain into purpose. With grace and candor, she opens up about navigating loss, honoring her mother’s spirit, and building a legacy that keeps her memory alive every single day.
Please tell us about yourself.
RaShonda: I am a 41 year old Boss who is from Auburn, NY. I grew up in a big family and was raised by my grandmother. Although that may be, growing up, my mother was heavenly present in our lives. I attended a private, catholic school and a public high school. While in high school, I had a son at the age of 15. I continued my education, obtaining my Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration. My mother helped me so much when I had my first child. I will always remember her love for my oldest son and the time she spent with him. When I had my second son, it would light my mom’s entire face up to see him and say his name. Once my mother passed away in 2018, I relocated to downstate NY, right outside of New York City. I moved here to chase my dream. I am a full-time CEO of Bossy 101-The Boss Movement, providing career development, mental health, financial literacy, and educational workshops for the youth and young adults.
Please tell us about your mother.
RaShonda: My mom, Veronica, most known as Peachy, was the youngest of ten children. She was literally the strongest person I ever knew. She was vibrant, fun, and full of life. She had a laugh that would engulf you. My mom always lived her life free and by her own standards. She faced a lot of adversity and hardships. Although that may be, she never let it dim her light. My mom loved to do crossword puzzles, listen to music, play cards and take long walks. She was afraid of cats and bridges and I have so many funny stories around them. She loved her kids. As a child, although I didn’t live with her, I remember seeing her everyday. She spent a lot of time with my brother, my sister, and I. She took us trick-or-treating every year, to beaches in the summer, and for long walks. I remember my first time going to Bingo with my mom when I was about 7 or 8 years old. We spent every weekend with my mom. She loved to dress me up and do my hair. I always went home with my hair done.
At the age of 37, my mom had a brain aneurysm, a heart attack, a stroke, and a seizure attack. The doctors gave my mom a 1 percent chance to live. My mom beat the odds and survived for thirteen years. Although she lived through suffrage, my mom never lost her sense of humor and her love for music. We would play Betty Wright and my mom would lip sing every word. I will always miss my mom and it gives me peace now that she is finally at peace.
When was your mother’s birthday and her passing date?
RaShonda: My mother’s birthday was July 24. She passed away on April 11, 2018.
What was life like for you when your mom first passed away?
RaShonda: When my mom first passed, I was devastated. I had just returned from the Bahamas so I came from a natural high to a drastic low. My mom suffered so much so I was instantly happy for her peace and at the same time sad, depressed, angry and a different person.
How has life been since the loss of your mom?
RaShonda: It changed me forever and I honestly didn’t know I loved my mom the way that I loved her until after she passed. It changed me forever. I have always been a loner but after my mom passed, I moved to the New York City area and started my life over.
How were you able to navigate the loss?
RaShonda: I was able to navigate the loss by relocating and focusing on my dreams. I leaned into my kids and put so much into being the best mother that I can be.
What are your best memories of your mom that you keep in your heart?
RaShonda: I will always remember and laugh at my mom from being afraid of bridges and scared to cross them. She went through a phase where she wanted people to call her by her government name. My mom always cooked and was always happy to be with her kids. Her laugh and the way she said my name will always play in my head. As my mom would say, “that’s the bottom and the top line”.
What advice would you give to someone coping with the loss of their mother?
RaShonda: The advice that I would give to someone who loses their mother is to pray, take one day at a time, and cherish the memories. Try to keep your mom alive through your actions. Talk to your mom, celebrate her and know that she will forever protect you.
How can readers connect with you on social media?
RaShonda: My social media handles are:
Website: thebossmovement101.com
Instagram: Bossy.master and Bossy101thebossmovement
Facebook: Bossy 101- The boss Movement
Read more Memories of My Dear Mother.
