Ada Douglas attributes her 90 years to “staying active, worshiping her God and being with her family and friends.’’
The Waycross resident celebrated her 90th birthday February 4 brought an afternoon of remembrance and joy in an open house celebration at her home on Shawnee Drive.
Douglas was honored by family and friendsat a party long to be remembered. “I am so thankful for the remembrance of so many relatives and friends,’’ she said. “The party was just so special and I appreciate my daughter-in-law Cynthia Douglas of Thomaston and my sister Jeri Eaton Pearson for the special occasion.’’
The gala occasion captured attention in the spacious living/dining room and family room area as many guests focused their attention on the honoree.
Conversation and fellowship highlighted the occasion, and guests found a delightful birthday table adorned with tiered trays of delicious treats — delectable cookies, spinach and veggie dips, meat balls, pimento pinwheels and other ornate treats among them.
A special Italian cream cake by Jeff Johnson and refreshing punch from Becky Williams topped it off. Centered with a colorful vase of flowers, the table was backed by a ‘’Happy Birthday’’ sign. A photo of the honoree was a special accent.
Along with many best wishes, Douglas was showered with gifts to commemorate her milestone birthday. She expressed deep appreciation for everyone’s thoughtfulness.
The honoree was born the third child of Carlton and Sara Youmans Eaton of the Youmans Chapel area of Pierce County. Siblings were older brothers David and Dorsey, and younger sister, Jeri.
“My daddy was a railroad man and I have many happy memories of my childhood,’’ she said.
After graduating from the former Blackshear High School, Douglas had a 32-year career with Southern Bell in Waycross. The job would take her to Houston, New Orleans, back to Waycross and then to Savannah from where he retired in 1985 to care for my ill mother.
After her mother died, Douglas worked part time for Bank of America and Kelly Services, she said.
Douglas said her life has been “active’’ as she has always been a volunteer, mostly with Telephone Pioneers of America, which works with other agencies.
She said her favorite was “Make A Wish Foundation,’’ when she was able to make several wishes come true for terminally ill children in Waycross, Douglas, Jesup and Pearson. She served several years as president of the local Pioneers.
Douglas is an Elder at First Presbyterian Church of Waycross where she has served as Sunday School teacher, coordinator for Presbyterian Women, treasurer and clerk of session. She said she now spends much time reading, playing cards and especially enjoying her “cherished friends playing Mah Jongg.’’
