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Pauline Nevins Finds Her Father’s Name

19 Comments / Senior Women Create / By

Pauline Nevins’ class picture shows a pretty, dark little face, surrounded by a sea of smiling, white children.

During World War II, thousands of biracial children were fathered by American service men in Britain—most of whom may have never known of the child. Pauline’s mother never discussed Pauline’s father, not even to say his name.

Much later, Pauline began to ask: “What was my father’s name? Her search for the answer spanned 17 years.

The little girl in the classroom picture migrated to the U.S.; became educated; married; had children; and worked in a long career. After retirement, she wrote her memoir: Fudge–the Downs and Ups of a Biracial, Half-Irish, British War Baby; but, at that time, she still could not include her father’s name.

Then, through Ancestry.com, she met her family. Now, in an updated version of her memoir, there is her father’s name, for all the world to see: Leroy Coker.

Pauline, there is no doubt—your father would be proud!

(Pauline’s memoir is available on Amazon.) 

19 thoughts on “Pauline Nevins Finds Her Father’s Name”

  1. Rhonda Willis

    ‘So glad your persistence paid off. Beautiful story! I grew up without a father and sometimes wonder, what might have been… Your father would have, indeed, been so proud of you!

    1. Sheila

      Thank you, Helen, for your comment. As you know, Pauline is a member of Gold Country Writers–a writers’ group filled with talent and creativity. The group misses you now that you have moved out of the area–so it’s doubly good to hear from you! Sheila

  3. Sheila

    Thank you, Joan, Anna, and Ruth, for your comments.
    Hey, Joan! If you have had the “missing piece” click into place, tell me about it. It sounds like an interesting post to me!
    Anna: Yes–in fact your enthusiasm about meeting Pauline in your shop and then calling me to tell me about her was how I met her in the first place. Thank you!
    Ruth: Pauline has written many interesting pieces–in fact, look for her articles in the Auburn Journal about various interesting topics. I intend to talk more about her writing on Bright ideas in the future.
    Sheila

  4. Joan Griffin

    There’s a a satisfying “click” when that important piece of the puzzle falls into place. Congratulations on finding the missing piece. I’ve had the same experience, and it’s quite emotional

  5. Anna Anderson

    Anna Anderson
    Pauline, I am happy to see your story. I met you when you came in a couple times to Creative Corner. I have your book Fudge. I found out we have a lot in common. I keep at the shop in case you come in. I would love to you autograph it.

    1. Pauline

      Hello Anna,
      I’ve popped in the shop but missed you. Perhaps you can email me your schedule. Enjoyed chatting with you,
      All the best,
      Pauline

  6. Ruth Dunmore

    Wonderful for Pauline to finally have the link she sought.. I wish the story would go on. A search for relatives perhaps? If not to meet in person, just more info into the family.

    1. Pauline

      Hello Ruth,
      You may have the first edition of “Fudge” – but I did connect with my African American family and we have exchanged visits. I published a later version with “The Rest of the Story.” I also have a free supplement for those that purchased the earlier version.
      Not sure how to make it happen but would be happy to give you a copy.
      Best wishes,
      Pauline

  7. Sheila

    Thank you, Del, Susan, and Lisa, for your thoughtful comments. Yes, Pauline is an amazing woman and writer–and her story is fascinating and unique … as are all three of yours! If anyone would like to read a past post no longer showing on the website, please email me. I will be happy to send you a copy. Sheila

  9. Susan Osborn

    Congratulations, Pauline, on completing your family circle by finding a missing link!

  10. Lisa Schliff

    Amazing persistence and sense of mission, Pauline! I commend you and rejoice that you found your birth family and father’s name. I look forward to reading your book.

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