Danny Federico
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
Flora Mae Kelley Jackson celebrated her 98th birthday on Sunday, Dec. 22, surrounded by family and friends who have been supporters throughout her extraordinary life. Born on Dec. 23, 1925, to George and Annie Townsend, Flora Mae grew up in the Hatchbend area, where, as the youngest of five children, she enjoyed some of the simplest pleasures life could offer. One pastime she fondly recalled was swimming the Suwannee River with her two sisters and two brothers. Flora Mae began her educational journey at a little school near a church in Hatchbend, where she stayed until she reached the eighth grade. Starting the following year, Flora Mae attended school in Mayo, where she remained for two years. She eventually transferred to Branford High School for 11th grade and graduated as a Buccaneer in 1945. Her graduation class held its 76th reunion in 2021, with only five of her classmates attending. Today, it is believed Flora Mae is the sole surviving member of the Class of '45. Eventually, she met Jack Kelley, who was the friend of a man Flora Mae's sister was dating at the time. Jack, who was in the military, visited Flora Mae every day during a 30-day furlough from service before going back. She recalled how, while he was overseas, the two wrote to each other frequently. It was also through these letters that the two became engaged and eventually married. It wasn't long before the two then became the proud parents of two sons, Ernest and Edward Kelley. Tragically, Jack passed away from a heart attack in December 1968, leaving her the sole proprietor of the family business, Kelley's Auto Supply. During this time in American history, it was rare to find women business owners, and Flora Mae recalled how she feared she would have to shut down or sell the shop. However, the community rallied around her, supporting her efforts to keep the business thriving until Ernest graduated and was able to take over. Now, as a NAPA Auto Parts, the store can still be found on Suwannee Avenue under Ernest's care. Six years after Jack's death, Flora Mae married Bishop Jackson, with whom she shared 31 years of marriage before his passing in 2006. With the marriage, she acquired an additional son, Kenny Jackson. Flora Mae is a lifelong member of the Branford Church of God and has maintained her devotion to scripture by reading the Bible daily. She has also traveled extensively, including mission trips to Europe and Canada, and continues to enjoy trips to the mountains with her family. Today, her family has grown, giving her six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. When thinking about how much things have changed over the years, Flora Mae noted a few major differences. The first thing was that the railroad used to be significantly active. Now, however, it no longer exists. Additionally, she stated that there was no electricity in Hatchbend until she was in the 11th grade, and there was only one telephone in Branford; it was located at the old Stalvey Hotel on Suwannee Avenue. Flora Mae has spent nearly a century witnessing and contributing to the growth of her hometown and beyond. Her impact on the area was seen in the number of family members and friends who gathered around her on Sunday to give her well wishes. Among the several attendees was Dr. Bienvenido Samara, who has known Flora Mae for over five decades. Flora Mae was one of Dr. Samara's first patients, and he has cared for her for 52 years. As the party concluded, Flora Mae expressed her gratitude for everyone who has supported her throughout the years.