By KINSLEY COOK
On September 27, Mittie Hedrick of Bonifay turned the page from 99 to 100 as she celebrated her 100th birthday. Hedrick has welcomed 4 children in her lifetime, Kita Meyer, Larry Hedrick, and the late Pat and Renita Hedrick.
Hedrick was born in Geneva County, Alabama where her family farmed. “The farm life was a hard life, but it was a good life,” said Hedrick. Her father never utilized a tractor, just two mules. When asked her earliest memory from childhood, Hedrick replied, “As a little girl, I remember– I do not know who, but they wanted me to say the word “fool” and I wouldn’t say it. I was taught it was a bad word.” The farm life did not end as her teenage years were over, Hedrick and her husband, James, raised their children on a chicken farm.
Additionally, Hedrick has a career history of caring for others. She worked as a caregiver in home healthcare for several years as well as private duty in Holmes County. When asked about how she felt about living and working in a small town, Hedrick replied with a memory, “A cousin of mine once said, if God were to ask me where he should put heaven, I would say right here in Bonifay, and I agree.”
Hedrick prioritizes her faith most importantly. “One of the best things in life is to know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior,” said Hedrick. “And keep up with it, love your neighbors and go to church,” added Hedrick. West Bonifay Baptist Church is her second home, as she is a devoted member. Hedrick walks often to church and enjoys the outdoors as much as possible.
A single piece of advice to younger generations from Hedrick would be to mind and obey parents and work. “Hard work is what made me who I am,” stated Hedrick.
NATALIE HOLTON 