Wilma Bennett celebrate 102nd milestone birthday

A Henderson woman marked a significant milestone on Tuesday as Wilma Bennett celebrated her 102nd birthday, surrounded by loved ones.

HENDERSON, Texas — A Henderson woman marked a significant milestone on Tuesday. Wilma Bennett celebrated her 102nd birthday, surrounded by loved ones.

“It’s just great to have her around still for so many years,” Bennett’s granddaughter Lisa Davidson said. “I’ve known her all my life, that’s all I know.” 

Davidson remained by her grandmother’s side throughout the celebration.

“She’s just always been there, a constant source of love and support for everything I do,” Davidson said.  “She’s my biggest fan, and I just enjoy every moment I get to spend with her.”

While guests enjoyed punch and cake, the true highlight of the celebration was the outpouring of love and support, as friends, family, and community members from near and far gathered to make Wilma’s 102nd birthday truly unforgettable.

“I’m a very fortunate person to have so many wonderful people come here and take their time and wish me a happy birthday,” Bennett said.

Representatives from Sen. Bryan Hughes and Texas Rep. Joanne Shofner’s offices, plus the Henderson mayor, dropped by with birthday certificates to celebrate Wilma in style — and Gov. Greg Abbott even sent a special certificate.

“That’s very wonderful to have memories like that, and people around you that care,” Bennett said.

Bennett shared with CBS19 her perspective on how one can live to the age of 102. Her response was straightforward.

“You can’t die,” Bennett said. “You have to just keep on keeping on and leave dying out of it.”

And what is Bennett’s secret to a long and healthy life? Dr. Pepper and a bag of Cheetos. 

“You have to have both,” Bennett said.

But Lisa says they real secret goes beyond soda and snacks.

“She lived on a ranch and ate good vegetables out of the garden and beef that they grew themselves,” Davidson said. “Her and my grandpa had a great relationship and a great time on the ranch, there was just family, love, support and church.” 

The team at Pine Lodge has celebrated Wilma annually since her 100th birthday, and this year’s celebration was the largest to date. The question now is whether 103 will top it.

“You don’t plan too far ahead,” Bennett said.  “I can’t think about tomorrow, because tomorrow I want to play bingo and I’m going to be there.”

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