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100-year-old black women reflects on life

Marie Singleton recalls what it was like growing up as a black girl in 1920s in Lebanon. The 99 year old will celebrate her hundredth birthday Friday, Oct. 30.

Staff photo by Apryl Pilolli Marie Singleton recalls what it was like growing up as a black girl in 1920s in Lebanon. The 99 year old will celebrate her hundredth birthday Friday, Oct. 30.

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By Justin McClelland, Staff Writer 9:15 PM Wednesday, October 28, 2009

MASON — Marie Singleton sat with her great-granddaughter in January to witness an event few thought possible when she was born 100 years ago — the inauguration of this country’s first black president.

Singleton, however, in her typical deadpan style, was unfazed by the momentous occasion.

“We’re all God’s children,” Singleton said. “The way God planned it is the way it’s gong to be. We might as well accept it.”

Singleton will turn 100 on Friday, Oct. 30. The Lebanon native, who now lives in Mason, has lived through the pain of racial segregation and intolerance and seen the hope and optimism of civil rights.

“She’s absolutely remarkable,” said Singleton’s daughter, Lois Hatch. “Everyone in the family puts her on a pedestal, not just because of all she’s done, but because of who she is.”

Singleton was born in 1909 to a town and time very much torn by racism. Singleton said that no one would walk with her at her Lebanon High School graduation because she was black so a teacher — Ms. Berry — walked with her instead. She attended Wilberforce University, where she received a degree in teaching.

In 1933, she married Charles Singleton, who worked at the bottling company in town, near where Marie lived.

“He used to come out in the afternoon on his break and whistle at me,” Singleton said. “ I would come over and wave.”

They had four children, Charles, William, Steven and Lois, as well as eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Blacks, Singleton said, had difficulty finding work and were not allowed to enter many stores in Lebanon.

Singleton will be honored Tuesday by the Lebanon City Council.

Like many things she has seen, Singleton is not overly impressed at reaching the century mark.

“I don’t want all that hullaballo,” Singleton said. “I lived as God and my daughter took care of me.”

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Congrats Mrs Singleton on a remarkable life! You have seen a great many things both good and bad and you still maintain a great and positive attitude!

Robert
9:30 PM, 11/2/2009

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On this your day was another opportunity for you to walk a little closer to God..Happy Birthday Mrs Singleton...

Kimmily Beard
2:40 PM, 10/31/2009

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They took my comments down for some reason. Happy Bday tomorrow! It's mine too!

Phil Man
1:42 PM, 10/29/2009

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What a wonderful milestone, your 100 year old birthday. Ms. Singleton. You are a lovely lady, full of grace, and an inspiration. Happy Birthday and many more@

Ethel S
11:54 PM, 10/28/2009

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Happy 100th Birthday Mrs. Singleton. You may not think it a big deal, but I'm sure it is to all who love you and may God grant you many more.

Me
9:38 PM, 10/28/2009

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