Photo feature: Natchez woman celebrates 102nd birthday

Published 12:04 am Sunday, March 3, 2013

Ben Hillyer | The NAtchez Democrat — Natchez resident Mattie Wilkinson celebrated her 102nd birthday surrounded by five generations of family and friends. Wilkinson’s great-great grandchild Riley Byram share a few giggles during the birthday party. Family members from as far away as Seatlle came to celebrate her birthday at the Margaret Martin Performing Arts Center.

Ben Hillyer | The NAtchez Democrat — Natchez resident Mattie Wilkinson celebrated her 102nd birthday surrounded by five generations of family and friends. Wilkinson’s great-great grandchild Riley Byram share a few giggles during the birthday party. Family members from as far away as Seatlle came to celebrate her birthday at the Margaret Martin Performing Arts Center.

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat — Wilkinson, at left, reaches out to hug her great grandchild Caitlyn Mizelle with Rebekah Mizelle smiling in the background.

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat — Wilkinson, at left, reaches out to hug her great grandchild Caitlyn Mizelle with Rebekah Mizelle smiling in the background.

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat — The birthday wishes also came by cellphone Saturday.

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat — The birthday wishes also came by cellphone Saturday.

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat — Helen Luby gives her older sister Mattie Wilkinson a hug during Wilkinson's 102nd birthday party Saturday.

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat — Helen Luby gives her older sister Mattie Wilkinson a hug during Wilkinson’s 102nd birthday party Saturday.

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat — Mattie Wilkinson talks to her grandson Bruce Mizelle during her birthday party.

Ben Hillyer | The Natchez Democrat — Mattie Wilkinson talks to her grandson Bruce Mizelle during her birthday party.