Trust in God secret for longevity

Published 12:00 am Sunday, September 5, 1999

Florence Dixon of Natchez doesn’t take any medication and doesn’t spare any of the real stuff when she cooks, including pork fat.

&uot;Which goes against everything they say to do to live longer,&uot;&160;said her son, Jennings Dixon.

But the Wilkinson County native must be doing something right.

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For on Sunday afternoon, more than 50 relatives and friends gathered at First Baptist Church to celebrate her 100th birthday. On that day, well-wishers filed by her chair to congratulate her and partake of cake and punch, including some who have known her for decades.

&uot;She’s just a sweet and friendly person,&uot;&160;said Mildred McNeil, who was Dixon’s neighbor for many years.

&uot;The Bible says that we only have three-score and 10 years on this Earth, and any more is blessing from God,&uot;&160;Jennings Dixon, himself 66, said.

&uot;So it’s certainly a blessing to be able to have my mother here for this many years.&uot;

While Florence Dixon is glad to have lived so long, Dixon said she is ready to meet her maker whenever it’s his will.

&uot;When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there,&uot;&160;she said, quoting a familiar hymn.

But what is her secret for living a century?&160;

&uot;Just work hard and trust in the Lord,&uot;&160;she said. &uot;That’s what I’ve done.&uot;