News Summary
Dr. Hester Petty, a beloved Jacksonville resident, celebrated her 100th birthday with a series of events including a surprise tea party and a memorable trip to New York City. Known for her dedication to education and community advocacy, Dr. Petty’s journey was marked by cherished memories and heartfelt connections. Her centennial celebration reflected her impact on family and friends, and her love for lifelong learning and exploration.
Jacksonville – Dr. Hester Petty, a longstanding resident of Jacksonville, celebrated her 100th birthday on May 17, 2025. Known for her remarkable contributions to education and the community, Petty marked this milestone with a series of celebratory events that drew family and friends from far and wide. Her exceptional longevity often elicits surprise and skepticism from those who meet her, prompting her to use special glasses to clarify her age when asked.
To commemorate her centennial, Dr. Petty enjoyed a month-long celebration that included a surprise birthday tea organized by her loved ones a few days prior to her actual birthday. This heartwarming event took place at Chets Creek Church, where she was greeted with joy and admiration from those around her, showcasing her significant impact on family and friends.
In her adventurous spirit, Dr. Petty embarked on a week-long trip to New York City to further celebrate her 100 years of life. During her visit, she revisited places filled with rich memories and shared firsthand experiences from her past. Notably, she took a trip to Grand Central Station, a site that held special significance, as she often frequented the oyster bar there with her late husband, Dr. Leon Petty, with whom she shared a loving marriage of 71 years. Petty observed renovations at the station since her last visit in 1947, reflecting on the changes that time has brought.
Her trip to New York also included visits to several iconic locations, such as the Museum of the City of New York and attending three Broadway shows: Hamilton, Wicked, and MJ the Musical. Each experience allowed her to indulge in her love for the arts while embracing the vibrancy of the city.
At her hotel, the celebrations continued with a special meal, where the chef presented Petty with a birthday cake, and the hotel staff serenaded her, further enhancing the jubilant atmosphere of her special week. Throughout these festivities, she expressed deep gratitude towards the kindness and support of her fellow Americans, which has been a recurring theme in her life.
Dr. Petty’s journey has been marked by her dedication to education, having obtained a doctorate in education and contributing to the field as a teacher, administrator, and college professor for over 45 years. She has also been an advocate for social awareness, documenting her family’s experiences with discrimination and perseverance while residing in both Delaware and Pennsylvania.
Throughout her life, Dr. Petty has emphasized the significance of persistence and the importance of standing up for what one believes is right. Among her cherished memories is a poignant encounter with a stranger from Russia, who startled her with a bouquet of flowers and compliments, a testament to the universal connections that transcend cultural boundaries.
As she reflects on her century of life, Dr. Petty exudes confidence in her ability to enjoy many more years, emphasizing that her enthusiasm for exploring the world remains undiminished. Love has been a guiding force in overcoming life’s challenges, and her heartfelt appreciation for the relationships she has cultivated stands as a testament to her legacy. The centenary celebration has not only been a personal milestone for Dr. Petty but also for those who have been fortunate enough to know her story and continue to be inspired by her remarkable journey.
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Additional Resources
- WCTI 12: Maybelle Tillman Honored
- Wikipedia: Centenarian
- News4JAX: WWII Veteran 100th Birthday
- Google Search: World War II Veterans
- Arkansas Leader: Jacksonville Resident 100th Birthday
- Google Scholar: Centenarian Celebrations
- Jacksonville Free Press: Jimmy Carter’s 100th Birthday
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Centenarians
- Jax Daily Record: Swisher’s 100 Years
- Google News: 100th Birthday Celebrations
