Feb. 11, 2011
For Immediate Release

Campbellsville University celebrates Lera Williams' 111th birthday

 

By Shelby Lynn Cash, student news writer

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. — “Every day is a happy day,” said Lera Williams, who turned 111 on Wednesday.
Williams sat reclined in her chair with a plethora of birthday cards on her lap, and pictures of loved ones surrounding her. She was all smiles as trails of people marched in and out to wish her a happy birthday. Williams enjoyed entertaining her guests by singing hymns to them, remembering every verse.

One guest, in particular, is very special. Elizabeth Rogers, a fifth grader at Taylor County Elementary, has the same birthday as Williams. Elizabeth is the daughter of Dr. Tom and Tonya Rogers, and the granddaughter of Dr. Milton Rogers, professor of biology at Campbellsville University, and Diane Rogers, former Taylor County High School guidance counselor.

Nathaniel Clifford and Elizabeth Rogers, both fifth graders at Taylor County Elementary School, and Lera Williams all share the same birthday, Feb. 9. (Campbellsville University Photo by Emily Campbell)

Elizabeth turned 11 this year, and Williams turned 111. That makes them exactly 100 years apart in age.

“Elizabeth has been going to see Ms. Williams since she was about six years old, when her parents found out they have the same birthday,” Diane Rogers said.

This year, Elizabeth brought a friend, who also shares the same birthday.

Nathaniel Clifford, also a fifth grader at TCES, and son of Principal Brian Clifford, also celebrated his 11th birthday on Wednesday this year and joined in wishing Williams a happy 111th.

While conversing with visitors, Williams told stories of her childhood, saying that she had a devotional every morning with her father, and every night before she went to bed, and that she wishes more people today were devoted to God.

She said she is not anxious for death, but she does not fear it.

Williams chuckled and said, “Sometimes I think my friends up there [in Heaven] probably think I went to the other place, cause I still haven't got there yet.”

When visitors leave, Williams says, “Come back tomorrow,” and smiles.

Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university with over 3,000 students offering 63 undergraduate programs, 17 master's degrees and five postgraduate areas. The website for complete information is Campbellsville.edu.