Crenshaw and her granddaughter Nakeshia Brown

Crenshaw a Tallassee Treasure

By Leigh Anne Butler

Mary Crenshaw was greeted by friends Wednesday morning at the Tallassee Senior Center to celebrate her 107th birthday. The room was filled with smiles, laughter, singing, balloons, cupcakes and flowers as Crenshaw entered. 

The birthday celebration was a surprise for Crenshaw. Staff from the Central Alabama Aging Consortium were present and placed a small tiara and “Birthday Queen” sash on Crenshaw when she arrived.

Crenshaw was the center of attention as she posed for photographs under the balloon arch Debbieann Woodard, Tallassee Senior Center director had made for the celebration.

“She is the oldest out of all 18 centers that CAAC is over,” Woodward noted.

Two rounds of “Happy Birthday” were sung and everyone enjoyed cupcakes and ice cream. 

“I’m down on my knees looking up,” Crenshaw stated. “The Lord is good. I am still here.” 

Crenshaw’s granddaughter Nakeshia Brown was in attendance and shared a tearful embrace with her grandmother after everyone sang “Happy Birthday.” Brown was emotional as she expressed how grateful she was for her life and what she means to others.