Ruth Crawford celebrating her 109th birthday with her family and sorority
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Today was more than a century in the making for one local lady – and she has more than one reason to celebrate.
Ruth Crawford not only recently celebrated her 85th class reunion at Paine College but is now celebrating her 109th birthday today.
“Words can not express how I feel. AKA is the best thing that ever been in the world,” Ruth Crawford, her 109th birthday.
Her family was thrilled to have many sorority sisters there and to have them help make her day one; they think she will remember them forever. They sang her a song, and she joined in. Her grandson said that was the first time he saw her sing and had not seen a smile on her face like that in a long time.
“Having her here today is just amazing because it allows us to celebrate not just her life but also everything she has done,” said George Isaac Crawford Jr., grandson. “She’s just kind of always giving back to the community, so it’s nice for the community to be able to come back, celebrate, and give back to her.”
Crawford inspired many with everything she has done in the community.
“She’s just been an encourager for so many of us that come up in education as well,” said Lula Williams, who met Ms. Crawford at five years old. “So, just to associate with her long after she’s retired and to watch the many things she’s accomplished. We are just so very proud to know her.”
Many are thankful for her guidance, from founding the Shiloh community center to education.
“It’s a joy for me because after graduating from Paine, I did become an educator, and this is my 20th year in education. She’s definitely inspired me and so many others,” said Dwanette Pullings, President of AKA Sorority Inc.
At 109 years old, she has seen and done a lot. But she has one wish: the revitalization of her beloved Shiloh Community Center.
“Help me get that place over there. We still need that place across the street,” said Crawford.
Crawford says that although she may not know the secret to live to 109, she is thankful and praises the Lord.
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