Milestone of a Lifetime: Port Orange Woman Celebrates 100th Birthday.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

On a warm summer day in 1923, Gennis Dawson entered the world on a West Virginia farm. Little did anyone know that this remarkable woman would go on to live an extraordinary life filled with adventures, courage, and a delightful sense of humor. As she celebrated her 100th birthday on July 26, 2023, Gennis welcomed her new century surrounded by the love of family and friends who gathered from near and far for a week-long celebration in the beautiful Daytona Beach area.

"I have had an exciting life, and we've had an exciting party Wednesday night," said Gennis during a phone interview.

Gennis' journey began on a humble farm, surrounded by a large and loving family. With four brothers who bravely fought in World War II, she witnessed the sacrifices and challenges faced by her generation firsthand. As she grew older, her adventurous spirit led her to explore the world beyond the farm's boundaries.

From the wild animals of Australia to the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu in Peru, Gennis embraced the thrill of travel. She delighted in the beauty of four of Hawaii's exquisite islands and camped her way through 49 of the 50 states in America, leaving no stone unturned in her quest for new experiences.

Surviving the Great Depression, two pandemics, and a Great Recession, Gennis faced adversity with a resilient spirit. Despite the hardships, she never lost her sense of humor, always ready to crack jokes with her family and bring laughter to any situation.

When her son and his wife decided to adopt an organic lifestyle, Gennis charmingly quipped that she had no choice but to eat "organically" until she was 20. In her childhood on the farm, her family couldn't afford pesticides, so they had to meticulously hand-pick bugs from the food they grew, instilling a sense of adaptability and resourcefulness that would serve her well throughout her life.

Gennis' life was not just about personal achievements; she also became a hero when faced with danger. On a visit to Washington DC for a wedding, she found herself in a burning townhouse with two children trapped on the top floor. Without a second thought, Gennis sprang into action, saving the children by tossing them over an alleyway to the safety of the neighbors' house before escaping herself. Her courageous act made headlines, earning her a spot on the front page of the Washington Post.

During World War II, Gennis also contributed to the war efforts on the home front. Working in the fencing industry, she transitioned from producing fences to manufacturing ammunition and other supplies essential for the war front.

Eventually, Gennis and her husband settled down in Homestead, FL, until life took an unexpected turn when Hurricane Andrew wreaked havoc in 1992, causing them to lose everything they held dear. Despite the devastation, Gennis and her husband showed remarkable resilience and determination, making the courageous decision to start anew in Georgia, where they built a life filled with love and cherished memories until Gennis' husband passed before she decided to return to Florida.

During Gennis' 100th birthday celebration, family and friends gathered, recalling fond memories.

"Gennis was the most amazing aunt to my siblings and me growing up," said Alice Lewis, Gennis' niece, who recalled memories of a Winnebago trip to Disney's Fort Wilderness in her childhood. "She is the kindest person I have ever met."

Following a long and adventurous life, Gennis lives with her daughter Marsha Richmond at Crane Lakes Golf and Country Club in Port Orange, and according to her friends and family, Gennis' memory and understanding of the world around her are phenomenal.

"We are very fortunate to have her in our life," said Marsha.

Gennis Dawson's life is a beautiful reminder of the importance of family, love, and resilience. Her unwavering spirit and kind heart inspire everyone she meets, leaving an indelible mark on future generations.