Happy 85th Ms. Lela Hunter,

And Many More!"

What a fabulous celebration that took place - not once but twice - in honor of the 85th birthday of Ms. Lela Hunter, a longtime resident of Monroe, LA, and a very special lady more than deserving of the honor! On Tuesday, October 4, 2022, Ms. Lela celebrated 85 grand years with the first of two birthday celebrations, a surprise virtual birthday bash that reaped love, joy, and good wishes! The virtual party was designed to accommodate out-of-towners unable to attend in person but who definitely wanted to participate in the celebration. Friends and relatives from various states, including Texas, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, New York, Mississippi, and of course, Louisiana, all attended via the Zoom birthday bash.

Ms. Lela was overjoyed with the display of love and appreciation as everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to the birthday girl. She then made a special wish, blew out her cake's sole candle, and then the party was on! This was her first virtual birthday celebration and one filled with special memories from those near and far who love and treasure her dearly! But the surprise wasn't over for Ms. Lela! A disciple of the Greater New Hope Baptist Church in Monroe, Ms. Lela is a former employee of the Monroe City School System, from whence she retired in 1997 after 29 years of dedicated and exemplary service in the Custodial Department of the Thomas Jefferson Junior High School. She has three wonderful children - Penny, Sandra, and Gregory - all who cherish and adore her!

Ms. Lela is a special lady who never tires of doing good for others. She has a generous and loving heart bigger than the Grand Canyon! It's no wonder she is so loved and admired and certainly so deserving of not one but two events celebrating her longevity. On Saturday, October 8, 2022, Ms. Lela's local relatives and friends blessed her with a second birthday celebration! Now, how special is that! Happy Birthday, Ms. Lela! Know that you deserve ALL the happiness and joy you've continuously given to others throughout your life! May God continue to bless, keep, and prosper you not only for your 85th birthday, but for many, many more to come! We love you, Ms. Lela! Best wishes and continued longevity always!