A house RESOLUTION

TO CONGRATULATE MATTIE KNIGHT OF HARTSVILLE ON THE OCCASION OF HER ONE HUNDRED FIFTH BIRTHDAY AND TO WISH HER A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND MUCH HAPPINESS IN THE DAYS AHEAD.

Whereas, on December 23, 2023, Mattie Knight of Hartsville awakened to the celebration of a milestone event: her one hundred fifth birthday; and

Whereas, born in Hartsville, Mattie Knight came into this world on December 23, 1918, when the twentieth century was still in its youth, and she has been witness to nearly all the incredible changes and developments that have come to this nation from that time into the third decade of the twenty-first century. Her life story unfolds as a testament to resilience, family values, and an unwavering commitment to hard work. Her powerful motto: "Work hard and treat people right"; and

Whereas, in 1938 at the tender age of 19, Mattie embarked on a new chapter of her life as she exchanged wedding vows with William Knight. Their love story unfolded against the backdrop of Augusta, Georgia, where they resided for about ten years. Mr. Knight, a dedicated employee of Coker Pedigreed Seed and a diligent farmer, worked tirelessly to provide for his and Mattie's growing family; and

Whereas, together, they raised three children who carried on their parents' enduring legacy: Edward Knight, Harvey Knight, and Ethel Knight Stubbs. Mrs. Knight, a matriarch in every sense of the word, proudly boasts of her eight grandchildren and a multitude of great-grandchildren, the latter being too numerous to count, as she charmingly admits; and

Whereas, her faith has been a guiding light throughout Mrs. Knight's journey. She remains an active member of Kay Branch Missionary Baptist Church in her hometown of Hartsville. Her spiritual foundation has anchored her through life's highs and lows, providing solace and strength; and

Whereas, while Mattie Knight has explored the sights of Washington, D.C., New York, Florida, and Tennessee, her heart remains steadfast in her loyalty to her beloved Hartsville; and

Whereas, it is a great pleasure to honor this daughter of South Carolina at the celebration of her one hundred fifth birthday, and the South Carolina House joins with her family and friends in congratulating her on reaching this important life milestone. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate Mattie Knight of Hartsville on the occasion of her one hundred fifth birthday and wish her a joyous birthday celebration and much happiness in the days ahead.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Mattie Knight.

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