Friends, family, church affiliates, and many others gathered for the birthday celebration of 100 years of life for Dr. Susie May Newsom McClure. The party was held at the T.L. Holcomb/Susie McClure Library on the campus of the American Baptist College where she has worked for many years.

The celebration was led by Mrs. Rebecca Hall, niece of Dr. McClure. Many people visited with her and shared a meal of heavy hors d’oeuvres, enjoyed special presentations, and as Rebecca asked: “What’s a birthday party without games.” Thus, there were several games that allowed almost everyone in attendance to receive a special gift.

The program began with an invocation given by Rev. Dr. William Easley and a greeting from President Dr. Forrest E. Harris.

Dr. McClure, showing no signs of being 100 years old, sang a song, a cappella that lit the entire room. There were others who participated in her birthday celebration by offering their talents as well. Solos were sung by Professor William Crimm and Dr. Sterling Culp. Also on the program was a special presentation by Rev. Dr. William Easley who read letters of congratulations and birthday salutations from city and state officials, along with a ‘Dramatic Reflection of Original Work,’ performed by Dr. George Breaux.

Other participants on the program were Dr. Jocelyn Cole who made special presentations and Professor Roderic Bronaugh, who provided music from the keyboard as he closed the program with ‘We’ve Come This Far By Faith.’

After cake and the ‘Birthday Song’ (the Stevie Wonder rendition), everyone took pleasure in taking photos with the ‘birthday girl’ and enjoyed a few reminiscent items on display, such as pictures, and a quilt that was made from t-shirts reflecting her world travels.

Following the grand celebration, attendees were invited to tour the Susie McClure Library.