Today is a day of joy and excitement for Grace Martin Stevens. The Liberty County native, who turns 100 years old on Oct. 7, will open her home this afternoon to friends, relatives and neighbors who want to celebrate with her.
Stevens was born Oct. 7, 1909, in Taylors Creek, to the late Lillah Eugenia Ryon and David Jackson Martin. She had seven brothers and sisters, John Anthony, Donald Jackson, Laura Belle, Francis Willard, George Candler, Vera Lucille and Cecil Madison.
From an early age, “Miss Grace,” as she is known by loved ones, was active in Taylor’s Creek Methodist Church. She played the piano for the Epworth League’s young people’s group. At times, Stevens became so warm other church members would fan her so she could keep playing and they could keep singing.
After graduating from Bradwell Institute, she continued her education at Georgia Teacher’s College (now Georgia Southern University) and became a teacher. She taught in Taylors Creek and Hardeville, S.C.
Stevens married Fleming Winn Stevens on June 5, 1934. They had two sons, Fleming Winn Stevens Jr. and Ernest Martin Stevens.
After living in Savannah and Hardeville, the Stevens returned to Hinesville in 1965.
Grace Stevens worked with Lois Cohan at the Midway Museum in the early 1970s, and was active at the First United Church of Hinesville, helping to write out the church’s history.
She also participated in the Circle of Love and the Ollie Darsey Sunday school class.
Stevens and her family encourage neighbors and friends to drop by her home on Hendry Street today from 1-4 p.m. for the festivities.
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