Idella Oliver celebrated her 105th birthday on April 15 at the Jackson Park Nursing Home, 5320 W. Jackson Blvd. The staff of Jackson Park Nursing Home threw a party for her that included a birthday cake provided by Ald. Ed Smith (28th Ward).
Oliver was born in Aberdeen, Miss., and her niece and nephew Annie Clay and James Clay Jr. were on hand to help her celebrate.
The home’s activity director, Princess Johnson, coordinated the program the celebration. The program began with a solo selection by employee and Evangelist Ruthie Brown. Prayer was offered by Minister Quincolia Hogan and Ald. Smith offered his congratulations and said he hopes to be back in the next 10 years to celebrate another milestone.
Oliver is a member of Metropolitan Baptist Church and although her pastor Rev. Scottie Williams was out of town, Ann Simmons, Oliver’s Sunday school teacher, spoke on his behalf. Dr. Herman Larry of Greater Love M.B.C. and Bishop Gregory Hill, of New Day Christian, both made remarks.
Cards were sent by many friends and church members. Acknowledgements and a special declaration were sent by Mayor Richard Daley, U.S. Rep. Danny Davis, and Rep. LaShawn Ford. The president of the Westside Branch of NAACP, Karl Brinson, also recognized Oliver’s birthday. A live broadcast recognition was done by on-air personalities from radio station WGRB.
Entertainment was provided by Master Key, an a capella gospel group.
The program ended with a champagne toast.
