Who is Mama from Confessions of a Failed Southern Lady and what is their importance?

Mama, Louise King, is Florence's mother. She does not become the lady that Granny wants, but it hurts her to know Granny would prefer Evelyn as a daughter. Mama marries Herb and gives birth to Florence. As a child, Florence believes Mama is trying to kill her until Mama proves her unconditional love by coming to her rescue twice. Mama works for the telephone company and receives several promotions. When Florence explains what a virago is, Mama likes the term because she has always known she was different but not why; now, she knows she is a virago, and she has the word painted on her bowling ball.