WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) wished Louise “Sammie” McClelland a happy 105th birthday for his inaugural Local Spotlight. Each month, Cassidy will highlight a local story that truly reflects Louisiana values of humility, respect, and resiliency.
Read his full April 2025 Local Spotlight below:
Mr. President, I celebrate Louise “Sammie” McClelland, who turned 105 years old this month on April 14th. She still lives on her own and spends her days reading, swimming, and attending Mass. You would hardly guess she is Jefferson Davis Parish’s oldest resident!
Her joy and adventurous spirit have not dimmed despite living through some of the most difficult periods in American history. During the Great Depression, Mrs. McClelland helped her family by sewing clothes, gardening, fishing, cooking, and caring for her younger siblings.
Mrs. McClelland later left home to pursue a degree at LSU and, subsequently, an impressive teaching career. She served her community for 35 years as a teacher, educating the next generation of Louisiana’s leaders.
Now living in Elton, Louisiana, Mrs. McClelland remains steadfast in her faith and thankful that the Lord continues to bless her with the things and people she needs to live well. Mrs. McClelland’s fearlessness and hard work, combined with her deep faith in God, make her a true embodiment of what makes Louisiana so wonderful, and we could all learn from her example.
When asked the secret to her long life, she replied, “Eat right, follow God’s rule, and exercise.” What great advice.
Happy 105th birthday, Louise!
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