Bay City Tribune

Six generations of family members of Valry Mae Allen Jones gathered to celebrate her 100th birthday on Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Bay City Service Center.

The hall was filled with green and purple decorations and the program included singing, prayer, guest speakers and a buffet for family and friends.

Some residents from Matagorda House and Bay Villa nursing homes were invited and accompanied to the celebration to take part in the event.

She received Certificates of Recognitions from Mayor Richard Knapik, The President of the United States Barack Obama, Shilo Baptist and New Horizion Baptist Church. She also was gvien special recognition awards from various groups.

Wandalyn Harris, Jones' granddaughter, led the organization efforts, coordinating with many helpful volunteers. During the program, Harris related stories of the faith and strength of her grandmother to the crowd.

Jones was born in Cedar Lane, Texas, on Thursday, Oct. 7, 1909, to Valree Allen and Emma Jones Allen. She has resided in Matagorda County all of her life.

She is a member of Enterprise Missionary Baptist Church, where she will be recognized during the 100th church anniversary on Sunday, Nov. 28.

Jones was presented a Certificate of Honor from Shiloh Baptist Church on Sunday, Sept. 20, during their 143rd church anniversary.

She was recognized as being the oldest known descendant of the original charter members who organized the church in 1866. Her great-grandfather, Alexander Allen, was a member of that charter.