Edith Stokes, a Rice native, turned 100 years old Thursday.

Stokes was born Nov. 17, 1916. This was during the Wilson administration. It was the year Boeing aircraft flew for the first time, and one year before the United States entered into World War I. Stokes has lived through 17 Presidential administrations and spent more time on Earth than most.

Outside of a little blood pressure management, she is in excellent health. She is able to live in the same home she has lived in since 1969, cook her own meals, attend church every week and even do her own grocery shopping.

Stokes is one of eight children. She has only one living sibling left, Annie Mae Watson, who is in her 90s. Longevity runs in her family as her father also enjoyed a long life having lived into his 90s. She was married to Raffie Stokes, now deceased. Stokes has always been a homemaker, not working outside the home. From their marriage were born nine children, 21 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

Stokes eats a bowl of hot cereal each morning. Other than that, she eats what she wants with no set diet. She has been an outstanding baker most of her life and enjoys cakes and pies. When family visits, Stokes is found in festive spirits, displaying the same sharp wit she’s always had. Until just a few years ago she could be found at home tending her garden.

This year, for her 100th birthday, all of her family gathered to celebrate this extraordinary milestone. If asked, she would attribute her longevity to her faith in Jesus Christ. Her favorite song is Amazing Grace and the verse that stirs her soul most is “through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come. ‘Tis grace that brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead us home.”