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Jacksonville Celebrates Ola Evans’ 100th Birthday

A joyful birthday celebration for a 100-year-old with family and friends.

News Summary

Jacksonville resident Ola Evans marked her 100th birthday, reflecting on her century-long journey filled with love, resilience, and community service. Born in Georgia, Evans has lived through significant historical changes and remains active in her faith community while sharing wisdom about the importance of nurturing relationships and forgiveness.

Jacksonville Celebrates a Century of Life

Ola Evans, a resident of Jacksonville, Florida, marked an incredible milestone as she recently celebrated her 100th birthday. Born in 1925, Evans has witnessed significant historical and cultural changes over the past century, including the presidency of Calvin Coolidge and gas prices that hovered between 20 to 30 cents a gallon.

From Georgia Roots to Jacksonville Community

Evans was born in Cordele, Georgia, and was raised in a family that included two brothers and two sisters. Her family background has deeply influenced her outlook on life, and she has faced considerable loss throughout her years, having lost all her siblings, two husbands, and two of her children. Despite these challenges, she remains resilient and has focused on the values that matter most to her.

Longevity Secrets

Mrs. Evans attributes her long life to strong principles centered around love—both for the Lord and for fellow humans. She emphasizes that the foundations of her longevity include the importance of prayer, forgiveness, and nurturing relationships. These values have guided her in maintaining a positive perspective on life.

A Dedicated Career

For nearly three decades, Evans served as a food services manager with Duval County Public Schools, retiring in 1985. After leaving her professional career, she dedicated much of her time to volunteer work, particularly with UF Health Jacksonville and the city’s Foster Grandparents Program. Her commitment to service highlights her belief in community and giving back, reflecting the strong sense of purpose she has maintained throughout her life.

Faith and Community Involvement

Evans has been an active member of St. Andrew Missionary Baptist Church for 49 years, showcasing her deep-rooted faith and connection to her community. The recent birthday celebration in her honor took place at the dining hall of Emanuel Missionary Baptist Church, where friends and family gathered to celebrate her extraordinary life.

Lessons from a Century of Life

Throughout her life, Mrs. Evans has adhered to principles learned during her childhood, such as the importance of truthfulness and the joy of laughter. Reflecting on her experiences, she has emphasized the significance of focusing on what truly matters, encouraging others to do the same. She has also expressed gratitude to God for the gift of reaching 100 years, highlighting her strong faith as a cornerstone of her longevity and well-being.

A Legacy of Wisdom

As the oldest living alumnus from her high school class, Ola Evans’s life experiences offer valuable lessons on the importance of love, community, and resilience. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of how a positive attitude and caring relationships can contribute to a long, fulfilling life.