Childers celebrates 90th
Published 10:57 am Saturday, April 4, 2009
Ella Ree Childers, whose birthday was March 27, celebrated her 90th birthday March 28, 6 p.m. at Brandon’s Place located on Second Avenue North with family and friends. This blessed occasion was given by her children, Dean, Jeanette, Bernethia, Larry, Cleavell, Earl and James. The colors were black and white.
Childers, along with friends, Annie D. Gill and Bessie Gissandaner, and relatives, Georgia Hosecloth, Evelyn Austin and Doris Ware, arrived at Brandon’s Place in a white limousine, compliments of Bobby Agee and family. Each lady, including her niece, Roberta Lee, was escorted in by the following: Larry Childers, son; Shean and Terrance Kennedy, Sherrod Childers and Lorenzo Gibbons, all grandsons; and Mrs. Childers was escorted by her great grandson, Sgt. Jermaine Gibbons, U.S. Army, who left the following day for his third tour in Afghanistan. She was greeted by more than 130 relatives and friends upon arrival.
The program opened with the Posting of Colors by her grandsons, Sgt. Orlando Wright, U.S. Air Force, and Sgt. Arthur Simon, U.S. Army, followed by the national anthem.
The opening song, “Spirit Fall Down,” was presented by daughters Bernethia, Jeanette and Dean; great grandson, Kenya’; and special friend, Vivian Bolden.
Scripture was read by Bishop James Ware, great nephew, and prayer was led by Pastor Michael Nix, grandson. Reflections were presented by Jeanette Kennedy, daughter, followed by a song from Bernethia, Jeanette, Dean and Vivian entitled “You Don’t Know Just How Blessed You Are.”
The recognition of family, relatives and friends included Louise Floyd, oldest granddaughter, and a resolution presented by Pastor Larry Sailes of Hopewell Baptist Church, where Mrs. Childers has been a faithful member for more than 50 years.
The closing song was “It’s Your Time,” followed by closing remarks from Bro. Greg DeJarnett, cousin and closing prayer and blessings from Pastor Clarence Varner, cousin.
Dinner was enjoyed by all prepared by her children.