Sarah Lee Williams Wells Thames, a native of South Carolina, celebrated her 100th birthday on June 1, 2024. Born in Mayesville, she is the only surviving sibling of fourteen children born to Rebecca (Williams) and Patrick Wells.
Thames moved to Paxville, where she married Alphonsa Thames Sr. Together, they had eleven children: Jimmy Thames, Inez T. Bell, Lionell Thames, Carlean T. Richardson, Pastor Sarah T. (Isaiah) Rashid, Francina T. (James) Bethea, Alphonsa (Radisha) Thames Jr., Phillistine T. (Timothy) Nelson, Dorothy T. Bethea, and Dr. Rosann Thames.
For over 50 years, Thames has been a devoted member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Manning, S.C., serving faithfully as an usher and being recognized as one of the oldest mothers in the congregation.
Her family honored her milestone birthday with a three-day celebration. The festivities began on June 14 with a meet and greet at the home of her daughter Dorothy Bethea. On June 15, an all-black formal dinner was held at The Breeding Garden Room. The celebrations concluded on June 16 with a gathering at J.C. Britton Park, where she was surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, family, and friends.
“Mother Sarah’s prayers and love have been a guiding light, illuminating our path with her warmth and tenderness,” her family shared. “Her stories and wisdom have enriched our lives in countless ways. Her laughter, humor, unwavering support, and boundless affection have been a constant source of strength, shaping us into who we are today. We are grateful to share her resilience, kindness, giving, and unconditional love that inspires us. She embodies grace and wisdom, and we are forever blessed to have such a precious jewel in our lives.”
The Thames family feels profoundly fortunate to celebrate Sarah’s century-long journey, a testament to her enduring spirit and the legacy she continues to build.
