Beloved teacher, sorority sister and community gem celebrates her 100th birthday

DILLON COUNTY, S.C. (WPDE) — Anne Mallett celebrated her 100th birthday Tuesday with friends, family and her beloved sorority members.

Community of Excellence, The Omicron Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and The Criterion Club all gathered at Mallett's home for the special celebration.

The retired teacher said she's amazed that so many people came out to see her, including some of her former students.

I'm so glad to see you all today. I seen you all when I started out teaching," said Mallette.

She shed tears of joy to see all the people in her home.

Sen. Kent Williams of Marion, Florence and Dillon Counties presented Mallette with a special resolution for her 100 years of life.

Dillon Mayor Tally McCall gave her a key to the city.

Members of the Omicron Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. presented Mallette with a special plaque.

"This is a milestone. And for the sisterhood. That's what we are service to all mankind. And with Omicron Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. being that she hit the milestone of 100 years old. That's a blessing," said Shakeya McClintock President of The Omicron Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Community of Excellence Founder Toni Graves played an instrumental role in putting the celebration together.

Graves said it was wonderful to see so many people come together to salute, celebrate and honor Mallette.

It means a lot. We have to give people their flowers while they're living. And she's so deserving. And so I had to make my way over here to celebrate, this precious jewel," said Graves.

Graves said Mayor McCall, Sen. Williams and others made great sacrifices to attend the celebration for Mallette.

Mallette's daughter said she was pretty happy to see so many people celebrating with her mother.

Sen. Williams' special resolution reads:

"WHEREAS, it is fitting that Community Excellence should recognize those citizens who are celebrating milestones in their venerable lives; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Anne S. Mallet celebrates her 100th birthday on July 13, 2023, an occasion which is commemorated with great joy in remembering the past, giving thanks for the present, and eagerly anticipating the future; and

WHEREAS, one of the youngest of 10 children, Anne was born and raised in Summerton, South Carolina; and

WHEREAS, as an adult, she became a valuable resident of Dillon, South Carolina; and

WHEREAS, before integration, she taught at Hamer Canaan School before transferring to Stewart

Heights Elementary School; and

WHEREAS, she retired from teaching after completing 30 years of meritorious service to her students; and

WHEREAS, throughout her long and productive adult life, she faithfully attended Bethel AME Church and served as a devout choir member and musician; and

WHEREAS, she is a member of Eastern Star Euclid 24th Chapter, Criterion Club, and a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; and

WHEREAS, she has made extraordinary contributions to her family, friends, and the community at large; and

WHEREAS, a person who has persevered despite many challenges throughout life, Anne Mallet is blessed with longevity and good health; and

WHEREAS, the members of the community find it appropriate to pause to recognize one of Dillon County's finest citizens; now, therefore,

Be it resolved by Community Excellence, that we honor and congratulate Ms. Anne S.

Mallet on the celebration of her 100th birthday and extend our best wishes for many happy returns."