VIDALIA — Clarence Randall Jr. is 91 years old, and other than the three years he spent in the Army, he has lived in Vidalia.

“The muddy water I drink keeps me young,” Randall said.

The same water Randall credits with keeping him young was also the reason for having to build his own home.

“The river used to flood so often they had to move the whole town,” Randall said. “We used to get out of bed and step into water.”

Randall built his house at the corner of Clinton Street and Gillespie Street in the 1930’s. Randall’s handyman skills not only helped with shelter from the rising Mississippi but it also kept food on the table.

“I was a painting contractor for 65 years, I painted all over the Miss-Lou area,” Randall said. “My father taught me how to paint and I taught my son now he is painter.”

Randall’s painting son is only one of the five children Randall has. But that’s not all, there are 11 grandchildren who also have babies.

“I have so many children, grandchildren and great grandchildren I don’t even keep count anymore,” Randall said. “And they are all usually here hanging around my house.”

Randall is the oldest member of the 590th American Legion where he is also the vice commander.

Randall is not a person who his is sensitive about his age, but he does understand how much things have changed.

“When I was born, a gallon of milk of cost thirty-six cents, a loaf of bread cost $1.57, and gas was eight cents per gallon,” Randall said. “If anyone had a radio in the neighborhood, so many people would hangout there, it looked like a wedding.”

Randall’s house may have lost a few boards and some paint, but it’s still full of laughter and love. The man’s work from almost 70 years ago still reflects the man.

“I’m still going, and most days I feel just fine,” Randall said. “ I turn 92 on September 25.”