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TO CONGRATULATE OPHELIA ROSS WILLIAMS ON THE OCCASION OF HER ONE HUNDREDTH BIRTHDAY AND TO WISH HER A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND MUCH HAPPINESS IN THE DAYS AHEAD.
Whereas, on November 12, 2021, Ophelia Ross Williams will awaken to the celebration of a milestone event: her one hundredth birthday; and
Whereas, born in Marlboro County, Mrs. Ophelia came into this world on November 12, 1921, as one of the five children of the Reverend Caleb Ross and Estelle Johnakin Ross. She has lived in Marlboro County her entire life; and
Whereas, as a child, the young Ophelia worked on the farm picking cotton. Her most memorable moments include living with her godparents, Richard A. and Mable Pouncy Ross, and attending Marlboro County Training High School. A strong believer in education, she continued her studies and received her high school diploma from East Side High School Adult Education. Today, she motivates her children and grandchildren to obtain higher education; and
Whereas, in the fullness of time, she met and married James E. Williams, Sr., God blessing their union with a fine family of four, Gladys, James, Jr., Harold, and Patricia. In 1954, her husband passed away, leaving her a widow with four small children. Two years later, her father died. Mrs. Williams also has endured the death of her firstborn, Gladys, as well as that of her secondborn, James Williams, Jr. Through all deaths and struggles, her faith in God always has continued strong; and
Whereas, at an early age, Ophelia joined Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, where she served faithfully as a child and young adult. After her marriage, she moved her membership to Saw Mill Missionary Baptist Church. At Saw Mill, she served on the usher board and as a Sunday School teacher and member of Missionary Circle #2, and she was named Mother of the Year (1998-1999). She is also a loyal member of Queen of Sheba Chapter #5, Order of the Eastern Star; and
Whereas, Ophelia Williams held various jobs over the years, but her last employment was with the Marlboro County School District, from which she retired after twenty-three years of service. At the time of retirement, she served as cafeteria manager; and
Whereas, each day, Mrs. Ophelia enjoys reading Our Daily Bread and her Bible and studying her Sunday School lessons. She says prayer, reading, studying God's Word, and having faith keep her strong. She continues to remind her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and others always to pray and read God's Word. This beloved lady is known as "Mom" or "Mama O" to many adults and children in her church and community; and
Whereas, Mrs. Ophelia, very thankful for the blessing of her family, rejoices that God has allowed her to see five generations in her lifetime; and
Whereas, it is a great pleasure to honor this daughter of South Carolina at the celebration of her one hundredth birthday and to join with her family and friends in congratulating her on reaching this important life milestone. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate Ophelia Ross Williams on the occasion of her one hundredth birthday and wish her a joyous birthday celebration and much happiness in the days ahead.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Ophelia Ross Williams.
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