In Savannah, Georgia, Agnes Williams is marking an extraordinary event: her 100th Christmas celebration.

For decades, her home has been the heart of family festivities, welcoming children, grandchildren, and now, an expanding group of great-grandchildren during the holiday season. To her, Christmas has always been synonymous with family, feasting, and shared moments.

“I feel truly blessed,” Williams expressed.

Reflecting on her childhood near Tallahassee, Williams recalls vibrant, bustling holidays filled with the warmth of family gatherings. Relatives would make long journeys to join the celebrations, a tradition that holds strong as her household remains the focal point for family reunions.

“Back then, they would arrive in wagons and on horseback, starting their journeys early to ensure they reached us by noon for a shared meal,” Williams reminisced.

Food has always been a centerpiece, with recipes made from scratch and shared with everyone who came through the door.

“John and I used to make ‘grate potatoes’ but most people don’t even know what they really are. You grate potato and cook it into a pie. It turns dark when you grate it and cook it,” Williams said.

Even after a hundred Christmases, she said it’s the simple things she looks forward to most.

“Most I’m looking forward to is, I guess, some collard greens,” Williams said with laughter.

Williams said family time and a good meal are still at the heart of the holiday.

She is looking forward to turning 101 in February.