MOULTRIE — Legacy Village of Park Regency’s oldest resident, Pearl Collins, will celebrate her 108th birthday on Dec. 24.

Collins joined the family at Park Regency in 2019, at the age of 102, when her daughter, Bonnie, convinced her to move in with her, and she has been a beloved presence and resident ever since, said staff.

She was born into a farming family in 1916, in Valdosta. Growing up in the countryside, her parents and siblings were her entire world. She is proud to have completed her K-12 education at Clyattville School, she said.

Collins remembers attending church just once a month, as the minister rotated among different congregations. Some of her earliest memories involve singing in the front pew of her church. Also washing clothes on a rub board, using homemade soap made from hog cracklings.

She recalls taking castor oil when she was sick and the excitement of her family’s first radio. Among her cherished childhood gifts was a large doll that she adored.

Upon reflection on her life, she said, her happiest memories revolve around her marriage to Henry Collins. Plus, the joy of raising their children, Bonnie, Henry and Rita. Henry served as a sergeant in the military, and the family moved often.

Collins made it her mission to make each new house a home. She treasures her family deeply, she said, and made it a mission to always welcome her children’s friends, as well. A nature enthusiast, she made sure her children spent a lot of time outside, teaching them about nature and the great outdoors.

Collins also has the joy of being grandmother to two grandchildren.

When her husband passed away, she worked in the city school cafeteria. Legacy Senior Living approached her on her 105th birthday with the opportunity of choosing a cause to donate $1,105 in her name. So, she chose Georgia Christian School cafeteria.

Her youngest daughter, Rita, attended the school, and she said she was honored and thrilled to be able to present the gift to the school and help another generation receive quality education.

Also, on her 105th birthday, Moultrie Mayor Bill McIntosh surprised Collins with a decree that Dec. 24, 2021, would be ‘Pearl Collins Day’ in Moultrie.

Never expecting to live this long, she attributes her longevity to a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Also, having grown up eating from the land and never having much fondness for meat.

When asked about her favorite part of living at Legacy Village at Park Regency, Collins said, she loves the staff, the arts and crafts, and, of course, Bingo.

“She is certainly a gentle heart but a force to be reckoned with! Legacy Village at Park Regency wishes Ms. Collins a very happy 108th birthday,” said the staff.