Jones Memorial Celebrates Nadine Anderson’s 99th Birthday

The Pastor, Reverend Thelma Gordon, and members of Jones Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church in Columbia, South Carolina, joyously sponsored a 99th Birthday Celebration Drop-In for Mrs. Nadine Anderson, who gracefully turned ninety-nine years old on December 16, 2023. At the age of 99, she holds the esteemed title of being the church's oldest member. The celebration warmly welcomed Mrs. Anderson’s family, friends, and fellow church members, with her only surviving sibling, 91-year-old Talmadge Coleman, gracing the occasion with his presence.

Elder Reid R. White Jr. extended a heartfelt welcome, followed by Reverend Carolyn Dixon’s touching recitation of a poem crafted especially for Mrs. Anderson. Mrs. Geraldine Goddard then shared a congratulatory letter from the honorable Mayor of Columbia, S.C., Daniel Richkemmann.

Amidst the delightful servings of food, cherished tributes poured in from family, friends, and community members, all expressing their deep admiration for Mrs. Anderson’s remarkable life.

Mrs. Anderson stands as a stalwart member of the A.M.E. Zion Church, embarking on her Christian journey through the Sunday School and Vacation Bible Schools of Jones Memorial at an early age. Throughout the years, she has selflessly dedicated herself to various leadership roles within the church, including her pioneering tenure as the first Lay-Council President, her esteemed thirty-one years as President of the Senior Usher Board, her impactful twenty-eight years as Missionary President, and her steadfast commitment as a Conference Worker since 1975. Retiring as a Class Leader in 2023 after years of faithful service, Mrs. Anderson’s legacy also includes over thirty-five years of dedicated service as the church secretary. Presently, she continues her invaluable contributions as an Exhorter and Deaconess, faithfully attending Jones Memorial.

Under the guidance of former pastor Reverend J. R. Williams, Mrs. Anderson assumed the pivotal role of Chair of the History Committee, culminating in the publication of the church’s inaugural edition of its history.

Beyond her commendable service at Jones Memorial, Mrs. Anderson’s leadership within the Columbia-Camden District and her unwavering dedication to the Zion Church have earned her widespread recognition as a loyal and devoted Zionite.

The festivities resonated with heartfelt birthday wishes showered upon the beloved “birthday girl” by numerous well-wishers. In her gracious remarks, Mrs. Anderson expressed her profound gratitude, emphasizing her enduring love for the Lord and for all people. While her earlier years were marked by devotedly caring for the sick and shut-in, she continues to embody her compassion by sending cards, making phone calls, and offering prayers to those in need.

In her closing remarks, Pastor Gordon reflected on her admiration for Mrs. Nadine Anderson, recounting her prior knowledge of Mrs. Anderson’s remarkable legacy before her assignement to Jones Memorial. She also highlighted Mrs. Anderson’s ongoing efforts towards the publication of the church’s next edition of history, a testament to her enduring commitment to preserving the church's rich heritage.

The event garnered local media attention, with a television station capturing the warmth and jubilation shared by all in celebrating Mrs. Anderson’s remarkable milestone.