Midlands Woman Celebrates 108th Birthday

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)- Mayor Benjamin’s staff and Sheriff Leon Lott are among the many visitors that stopped by Donella Brown Wilson’s home on Pendleton Street to wish her a happy birthday.

Miss Donella has met many leaders over the years. Though the former teacher no longer likes being photographed, the pictures from her past are worth more than a thousand words, some date back to her early days as a voter.

“She has a lot of stories but probably the most important story is the fact that she’s never missed an election since 1947. Every new cycle, we all travel together to make sure she continues that pattern to vote. So for anybody who has ever missed an election in their lifetime, Miss Donella Wilson is an example that there is no excuse for you not to vote,” said Antjuan Seawright.  He said Miss Donella has been a part of his family for years, teaching multiple Seawright generations.

In addition to being named an honorary sheriff and getting gifts from the mayor, Miss Donella got one more surprise the entire city can see.

“We got you a big billboard up with your picture,” said Seawright.
“With my picture on it?”asked Miss Donella.

“Your picture is on the billboard in Downtown Columbia, and everybody is talking about it. They’re so happy,”said Seawright.

You can see Miss Donella’s billboard on Gervais Street, Seawright said it will stay up through Friday.