Missouri Widow Runs Flower Stand to Honor Late Husband

A Missouri widow continues a cherished tradition with her late husband of over 30 years through a modest flower store. Cierlita McGee, 78, runs a flower stand named “Just Because” in a Springfield parking lot, seeking to brighten the day of those who pass by, all in memory of her late husband, George.

McGee started her flower stand on July 1 to honor George who she said pampered her with presents throughout their 31-year marriage. George died on March 4, 2022, at the age of 71. “Every time he came home from work, he’d say, ‘Honey, I have a surprise for you.'” “It could be a rose stem, a bar of chocolate, or a $1 scratch ticket,” McGee explained. “I’d jump up and down.” He continuously told me, ‘It’s just because,’ so I named my company Just Because…”

The 78-year-old widow is originally from the Philippines where she worked as a high school and college teacher before relocating to the United States to further her education. She has a bachelor’s degree in business and has spent her life committed to helping others. Cierlita has taught English as a second language to newly arrived refugees assisting disabled adults in their homes.

Cierlita and George met in Hawaii in the 1980s while she was working as a residential counselor with three challenged persons at the time. After George relocated to Chicago, Cierlita went to Springfield Missouri to pursue her master’s degree in special education at Missouri State University. When she arrived, she called George, who relocated to Springfield, where they spent 31 years together. Cierlita decided to open the flower stand to honor him by brightening people’s days the way he brightened hers for years “Just Because”.