Page 9 - Florida Sentinel 9-11-20

Birthday Greetings! Feature
Happy 80th Birthday, Mama
MRS. TOMMY LEE MILLER September 9th
A Poem For Mama
Your birth was a gift from God; you were sent to show us how to love; how to be strong, and believe in God above.
You struggled, but you never stopped and found success; watching you taught us how to do our best.
God has blessed you with many years to teach; to show love to all within your reach.
So on this, your birthday, we will celebrate your love; as wife, mother, sister, and friend like no other.
We thank you God for sending us this precious jade whose love never dims and it never fades.
We love you Mama, Happy 80th Birthday, from your chil- dren.
World War II Veteran Celebrates 100th Birthday
BY IRIS B. HOLTON Sentinel City Editor
Saturday, September 5th, was a special day for Mr. Bennie Gilley. He cele- brated his 100th birthday with some members of his immedi- ate family and others ex- tended their birthday wishes virtually.
Mr. Gilley attributes his longevity to his “faith in God, his love for his children, and family.” Another secret is that he never considered himself as “old.” He believes in staying active and does this by doing some of the household chores such as washing dishes or loading the dishwasher.
His son, Dwayne Gilley said his father has some health issues, but was fully aware that he was honoree of the hour.
A native of Monticello, Florida, Mr. Gilley was born on September 5, 1920, and at- tended schools in Jefferson County. After becoming an adult, Mr. Gilley was drafted into the U. S. Army and served from 1941 to 1945, in France.
Upon earning an honor- able discharge, he returned home before moving to Talla- hassee.
Mr. Gilley attended Jones Barber’s College and later moved to Tampa. In No- vember, 1966, Mr. Gilley be- came a widower after his second wife died.
He became the father of 6 daughters and 4 sons. He is also proud of his 20 grandchil- dren and 30 great grandchil- dren.
The advice he offers to his family is, “Don’t hold
BENNIE GILLEY Celebrated his 100th birthday on September 5th
grudges,” “treat people as you want to be treated,” and to “sweep around your own front door.”
And he would have been remiss if he had not taught his children that, “Mama may have, daddy may have, but God bless the child who has his own.”
His working career spans several decades with him working for various construc- tion companies for more than 25 years.
He decided to retire in 1984, but it was short-lived, his son said. He soon went back to work for Chester and Louisa Lykes Ferguson and remained there until 2000.
When time allowed Mr. Gilley enjoyed fishing, base- ball, and boxing. He also loves good food, including Blue Bell ice cream.
A member of Alpha & Omega Church since 1967, Mr. Gilley is strong in his faith and one of his favorite Bible verses is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.”
Happy Birthday
SHERYL AND DEBRA CURTIS J. HUDSON 9/8 AND 9/9 9/10
The year I was born will be the age I will be.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY PAGE 9-A