New Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 1109 W. 12th Street, “The Church Where Love Abides”, celebrated its 90th anniversary recently. The theme for the observance was “Celebrating the Golden Year, 1917-2007”. The banquet of honor was held Saturday evening at the St. Paul Baptist church fellowship hall. Mistress of Ceremonies for the occasion was Dr. Barbara Kirby-Bentley.

Honorees for the evening were Sisters Mary Lizzie George Anderson, Neda Mae Boykins, Olive Wilson Johnson, Marie Tillman and Deacon Leroy McClendon, Sr.

These honorees were paid tributes and many reflections of their lives were given by friends and family members.

Deacon Henry Talton spoke of the life of Mary Anderson.

Prophetess Deborah Anderson gave life’s reflections of her grandmother Neda Boykins. Dr. Gail J. Choice reflected on the life of her mother Olive Johnson. Deacon Jack Jackson, Sr. life reflections was of the life of Deacon Leroy McClendon, Sr.

Benita Tillman Brown spoke of life with her mother Marie Tillman.

The honoree’s Anderson has actively served New Mt. Calvary Baptist church for over 40 years as a choir member and church deaconess. Ninety-seven years young, she just retired as a foster grandmother.

Neda Mae Boykins, 95, is still driving and serves as a foster grandmother at a local elementary school. She has been active in her church since 1934, Sunday school teacher, soloist in the church choir and missionary board. She retired some years ago from Afro Life Insurance Company as an agent.

Olive Johnson, 92, is a retired educator, having taught for 42 years in the Seminole County school system. Having been a member of Calvary for nearly 90years, she has served as Sunday school superintendent, Baptist Training Union teacher, pianist, trustee, fundraiser and director of pageants.

Leroy “Slim” McClendon, 91, is the retired owner of the Green Hornet Taxi Cab Company. In 1941 he united in fellowship with Mt. Calvary. He serves as deacon and enjoys singing hymns at services.

Marie Tillman, 94, wears a cheerful smile always. She has been a faithful member of Mt. Calvary since the 1930’s. Her Christian walk speaks volumes of her commitment to God, church, family and the community.

Soloist for the evening’s entertainment was honoree Neda Boykins and Mary DeBose. Carl Young performed a very spiritual praise dance to the selection “My Provider”.

District Two/Vice Mayor Dr. Velma H. Williams extended greetings from the City of Sanford and presented each honoree a personal proclamation from the City of Sanford.