A LIFE ROOTED IN GRATITUDE AND JOY
ST. MARTIN PARISH, La. — Surrounded by family, friends, and community leaders, 101-year-old Pearly Bernard Williams recently celebrated a remarkable milestone that reflects more than just longevity. Her life stands as a testimony of perseverance, faith, and unwavering trust in God through every season of hardship and blessing.
Born in the small community of Broussard, Williams spent much of her life working in the countryside before eventually settling in St. Martin Parish. Even at 101 years old, her joyful spirit remains unmistakable to those who meet her.
“Always a happy person, all my life, I am, I ain’t mad at nobody, always happy no fussing,” Williams shared with a smile.
Her outlook reflects the truth found in Proverbs 17:22, which says, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.” Family members say her positive attitude has been a source of encouragement for generations.
A CHILDHOOD MARKED BY SACRIFICE AND HARD WORK
Williams’ journey was not an easy one. As a young girl, she was pulled from school during the third grade so she could help provide for her family. She spent years laboring in fields, picking peppers, cotton, and sugarcane while also cooking in kitchens and working as a housemaid.
“I never knew the idea of what I wanted to do, all I ever do was work work work, everyday,” Williams said.
Through decades of sacrifice, Williams raised five children and continued pressing forward even after losing her husband at the age of 50. Much of the responsibility of caring for the family rested on her shoulders, but she said God gave her the courage to endure.
“It wasn’t easy you know, I had the courage to take care of my family and I’m happy,” she said.
Her testimony mirrors Galatians 6:9, which reminds believers, “Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
FAITH THROUGH LIFE’S DARKEST MOMENTS
Williams credits her deep faith in God as the foundation that carried her through every struggle. Nearly a year ago, after becoming seriously ill, she was placed on hospice care and given only weeks to live. Instead, she recovered and continues enjoying life with her family today.
Now living with her daughter, Williams spends many days walking through the garden and reflecting on God’s goodness.
“People see you everyday and they don’t know what it is you’re going through, but he knows,” Williams said while pointing toward heaven. “That’s why he got me like this.”
Psalm 46:1 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,” a verse her family says perfectly describes her life.
A TESTIMONY OF UNITY, LOVE, AND GOD’S GRACE
Having lived through generations of change in America, Williams says her experiences taught her to love and pray for everyone equally.
“I do my prayers for everybody, Black or white, it doesn’t matter, we’re all God’s children,” she said.
During her birthday celebration, the City of St. Martinville honored Williams with a proclamation and presented her with a key to the city, recognizing her enduring impact on the community.
Even after 101 years, Williams remains humble about the secret to her long life.
“God got me still going, I don’t know how old I’m going to be, but I feel good I just feel good,” she said.
Her life continues to serve as a living reminder of Isaiah 40:31: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.”
Prayer for the Community
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the life and testimony of Pearly Bernard Williams. Thank You for sustaining her through hardship, loss, and triumph with Your grace and mercy. May her story inspire families throughout St. Martin Parish and beyond to trust in You through every season of life. Bring peace, strength, and healing to the elderly, caregivers, and all those facing difficult circumstances. Unite communities in love, compassion, and faith as we remember that we are all Your children. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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