[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 71 (Tuesday, April 29, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S2658]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO LOUISE ``SAMMIE'' McCLELLAND

 Mr. CASSIDY. Mr. President, I celebrate Louise ``Sammie'' 
McClelland, who turned 105 years old this month on April 14. 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, LA, 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.

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