Family And Friends Celebrate 100-Year-Old Macon Woman

MACON, Miss. (WCBI) — A Macon woman is celebrating a special milestone. She’s turning 100.

Miss Joy Carlson is a walking history book and so full of wisdom. I sat down with her to talk about her life and lessons she’s learned along the way.

Family and friends are giving Joy Carlson the celebration she deserves. She’s turning 100 years old and enjoying all the attention that comes with living for an entire century.

“I’m sort of overwhelmed, this whole birthday thing has been overwhelming,” said Carlson. “It’s been nonstop. Not that I don’t enjoy it or love the people doing it, it just has been sort of nonstop.”

When reflecting on her life and accomplishments, she’s quick to acknowledge the love and support of others along the way.

“The people I’ve met and the places I’ve been,” said Carlson. “As I look back over my life, there wasn’t a single advance that I made in life without the help of someone.”

And she has some wisdom for younger generations trying to reach their goals.

“Don’t ever be afraid to go out and alone and don’t ever be afraid to ask someone something,” said Carlson.

Miss Carlson said when the celebrations are over, she plans to retreat to a quiet place to recover.

“There’s a place out here called the founding and I said when this clears away I’m going out there for a week to meditate,” said Carlson. “It’s a joke but just go out there to meditate.”

Joy also recalled living through Malaria, World War 2. She said she has had the opportunity to travel and live all over the world.