Grand Rapids Woman Celebrates 101st Birthday

Bernice Garmon has lived through a century of change and remains active in her community.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Bernice Garmon, a 101-year-old woman from Grand Rapids, Michigan, is celebrating her birthday on February 26th. Born in 1925, Garmon has lived through major historical events and continues to stay active, attending church weekly and participating in senior programs at the United Methodist Community House.

Why it matters

Garmon's longevity and continued vitality at 101 years old is an inspiring story that highlights the resilience and determination of older adults. Her life experiences also provide a unique perspective on the changes that have occurred over the past century, from segregation in the Deep South to the technological advancements of modern times.

The details

Bernice Garmon was born in Pickens, Mississippi in 1925 and later moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1954 after marrying William Garmon. Together, they had 13 children and built a multi-generational family legacy. Garmon has remained active in her community, attending church every Sunday and participating in senior programs at the United Methodist Community House, where staff marvel at her energy and engagement compared to other participants decades younger.

  • Bernice Garmon was born on February 26, 1925.
  • Garmon moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1954.

The players

Bernice Garmon

A 101-year-old woman from Grand Rapids, Michigan who was born in 1925 and has lived through a century of change.

Patricia McElwain

Bernice Garmon's 71-year-old daughter who now cares for her mother.

Jordan Garcia

The program manager for the older adults department at United Methodist Community House, where Garmon participates in senior programs.

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What they’re saying

“It's amazing to watch how active she is. Our programs start at age 60, and we have a good mix between 60 and I'd say probably about 80, and that's kind of where it stops. So she's got a good 20 years on the rest of them, and she is right there with them.”

— Jordan Garcia, Program Manager, United Methodist Community House (fox17online.com)

“Thank the Lord that she's still healthy.”

— Patricia McElwain, Bernice Garmon's Daughter (fox17online.com)

“My grandmother used to always say, 'Praise the Lord and eat ice cream.' She used to eat ice cream every night before she went to bed. And she would say, 'Keep on praising God and eating your ice cream.'”

— Patricia McElwain, Bernice Garmon's Daughter (fox17online.com)

What’s next

Bernice Garmon's family is planning a special celebration for her 101st birthday on February 26th, but the details are being kept as a surprise.

The takeaway

Bernice Garmon's remarkable longevity and continued vitality at 101 years old serve as an inspiration, highlighting the resilience and determination of older adults. Her life experiences spanning a century provide a unique perspective on the significant changes that have occurred over the past 100 years.