Byron woman celebrates 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends

Lifelong Byron resident Lillian Williams says her faith and the love of those around her have carried her through a century of life and memories.

BYRON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Lillian Williams of Byron is celebrating her 100th birthday on Tuesday.

A lifelong resident of Byron, Williams has called Villa Rose home for the past 11 years. She has been an active member of Byron Methodist Church and the Village Green Garden Club.

Williams had an identical twin sister, Lucille Johnson. She was married for 51 years to Morris Williams, and the couple raised two children, Ann Giles and Mike Williams.

Williams says the secret to her longevity is faith and love.

“The secret is that God loves me, and I can feel it in my heart,” she said. “And he’s the one that has let me stay here all these years. And I’m grateful to him every day. I’m grateful also for all these people that I have loved for years, because, at 100 years old, I feel like they are all part of my family. And it is a special feeling to me. Williams said.”

Lillian celebrated surrounded by friends and family.