Lamar honors Mrs. Virgil’s 100 years
Rep. Robert Williams and Lamar Mayor Inez Lee pose with Mrs. Virgil after presenting her with the proclamations honoring her 100 years. PHOTO BY STEPHAN DREW
By Stephan Drew, Editor
Lamar residents gathered on Friday, March 6, at the Lamar Senior Center to celebrate a remarkable milestone in the life of one of the community’s most cherished citizens. Mrs. Lucille Dukes Virgil, a beloved and respected member of the Lamar community, recently reached her 100th birthday, marking a century filled with faith, perseverance, and service to others.
Family members, friends, and fellow seniors filled the Center, located at 528 Cartersville Highway, for a beautifully arranged celebration honoring Mrs. Virgil’s extraordinary life. The morning was filled with laughter, warm hugs, and heartfelt well-wishes as those in attendance came together to recognize a woman whose life has touched countless people.
During the celebration, South Carolina Representative Robert Williams and Lamar Mayor Inez Lee presented Mrs. Virgil with official resolutions and proclamations in recognition of her centennial birthday and her lifetime of wisdom, faith, and experience.
Representatives from the Darlington County Council on Aging attended the celebration and presented Mrs. Virgil with a special certificate honoring her longevity, positivity and profound community involvement.
Born in Lamar, Mrs. Virgil left her hometown as a young woman and moved to New York, where she spent more than five decades working in the garment industry. It was there that she met her husband, James Virgil. The couple married in 1956 and later welcomed their son, James Virgil Jr.
After the passing of her husband in 1979, Mrs. Virgil eventually made the decision to return home. In 1997, she moved back to Lamar, reconnecting with the community where her journey first began.
The celebration program featured inspirational songs, prayers, and remarks from several attendees. Rev. Dr. Shuler, pastor of Mary Magdalene Church, opened the program with prayer and shared reflections on Mrs. Virgil’s faith, strength, and courage throughout her life.
The proclamation and resolution presented during the ceremony recognized Mrs. Virgil for her long life, her positive influence, and her lasting contributions to the community.
Even at 100 years old, Mrs. Virgil remains active in both her church and community. She is widely admired for her grace, strength, and wisdom. During the celebration, she offered words of encouragement to those gathered.
“Take good care of yourself,” she said. “Hard work will get people through just about anything.”
When asked the secret to her longevity, Mrs. Virgil did not hesitate.
“The Lord is my strength,” she replied, reflecting the deep faith that has guided her life.
Mrs. Virgil’s century-long journey stands as a powerful testimony to perseverance, dedication, and faith. The overwhelming outpouring of love at her birthday celebration served as a reflection of the deep respect and admiration she has earned throughout her life.
For the Lamar community, honoring Lucille Dukes Virgil is more than a birthday celebration—it is a tribute to a woman whose life continues to inspire generations.