Editorial Intern
What accomplishment warrants a plaque from President Obama and a US flag that was flown over the capital in your honor? Dorothy Seymour found out for herself when she received both of these items on May 27. It was her 100th birthday.
Signal Hill’s Courtyard Care Center, where Seymour currently lives, hosted a celebration in recognition of the occasion. When asked to what she attributes her longevity, Seymour said, “Don’t overdo anything.”
Born May 27, 1910, in Sandusky, Ohio, Seymour moved to Long Beach with her parents, sister and two brothers when she was 10 years old. The 90-year Long Beach resident graduated from Poly High in 1929 and married Bill Seymour November 19, 1930; they enjoyed 77 years of married life. “I’m thankful for the wonderful times that I’ve been blessed with. It couldn’t be much better,” Seymour said. “I have loved the children and their laughter.” Seymour is the mother of two, grandmother of five, and great-grandmother of 12.
Among Seymour’s hobbies have been baking birthday cakes, arranging flowers for her home and church, studying the Bible, and letter writing. Her family said they treasure the letters she has written them over the years. “We are thankful for Dorothy, for her shoulder we have used to cry on and for her loving Christian spirit,” said Donald Yvone, Seymour’s son. “God has been good to us to have her from the beginning until now.”
Granddaughter Keri Swobe said, “One thing that will always stand out to me is your love to the Lord.” Seymour said her favorite Bible verse is Psalms 139. The excerpt concludes with, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
