12/07/2024
In our home, reaching the milestone of 100 years old is a remarkable blessing. But having two residents celebrate their centennial is nothing short of extraordinary. We are truly blessed to witness this momentous occasion.
To honor this incredible achievement, the Mayor of Bridgewater, Matthew Moench, graciously joined us in a heartwarming celebration. These two centenarians have lived through a century of change, resilience, and joy, and their stories inspire us all.
Hereโs their stories - tales of love, perseverance, and a life well-lived:
๐ผ Golden
Everyone has the chance to shape a better future. In the past, laws and stereotypes held people back based on their gender and skin color, limiting their roles in society. Yet many overcame these challenges and continued to strive for a better life. Today, we continue to push for equality and fairness for everyone. One such woman is our very own Golden. This winter season, our facility had the privilege of celebrating a monumental milestone with one of our residents, Golden, on the occasion of her 103rd birthday. As Anne Lamott beautifully said, โDonโt look at your feet to see if you are doing it right. Just dance.โ Living with purpose is a choice that requires strength, courage, and an unwavering commitment to oneโs values.
Golden was born in August of 1921 in Brenham, Texas, as the eldest of three children. From an early age, she and her family were actively involved in their community and church. She regularly attended Sunday School at Liberty Road Church, participating in various church plays and programs. Her lifelong devotion to her faith has remained a guiding force, and she has served her church in many capacities, including as Secretary of the Mission. Goldenโs leadership and dedication to service have left a lasting impact on both her church and community.
At 18 years old, Golden met the husband, Richard, at Solan Methodist Church. The two soon married, and their union was blessed with a son, Richard Jr. Together they relocated to Houston, Texas, where tragedy struck just a year later. While working, Richard Evans Sr. suffered a severe accident and spent several months in the hospital. Sadly, he passed away six months later, leaving Golden to care for their two-year-old son. Throughout her grief, Golden showed incredible strength and resilience. She would wait for her husband on the porch every evening, hoping for his return, until it became clear that he would never come back.
Despite this profound loss, Golden remained steadfast in her determination to raise her son with the same love, discipline, and faith that had shaped her own upbringing. She remained an active member of the church, where her commitment to service continued. Golden served as Secretary for the Liberty Road Methodist Church, and took on various side jobs to support herself and her son, demonstrating a strong work ethic and a dedication to providing for her family.
Goldenโs life is a remarkable example of perseverance and faith. She faced numerous challenges, including growing up in a time and place where segregation was prevalent. Yet, through her courage, determination, and deep-rooted faith, Golden became a pillar in her community and a steadfast mother who instilled the values of love, faith, and strength in her son.
We are honored to celebrate Goldenโs life and legacy - a life shaped by resilience, devotion, and an unshakable commitment to her family and faith.
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