Abilene Woman Turns 100
By: Tiffany Tatro
Updated: January 3, 2011
An Abilene woman was born on 01-01-11. That's 1911. She celebrated with a big birthday bash.
Elva McNiel rang in the new year in a big way. She turned 100-years-old.
“She's been excited for 2 or 3 days,” said Elva's daughter, Valeta Gilchrest.
Five generations of family came out to celebrate her big day.
“We have grandkids, great grandkids, and great great grandkids here,” said Gilchrest.
Gilchrest said McNiel stays youthful by being around family.
"We keep her young by playing, singing and having a good time.”
McNiel said her true fountain of youth is her faith.
We went to church everyday. Every day,” said McNiel.
Young at heart and as her family put it, 100 years of greatness.







