Senetta Clifton, who is 103 years old, has witnessed some of the most significant turning points in American history.
Clifton’s journey from a small-town kid in Palestine to a recognized figure in Houston’s educational scene has left her community in awe of her fortitude, keen wit, and warm energy. She is a respected educator, a community pillar, and a source of unshakable wisdom.
As a longtime member of Riceville Mt. Olive Baptist Church, the church went above and beyond to celebrate the arrival of its oldest member, who is starting a new year in good health and with a positive attitude.
She had a profound effect on Riceville’s young people. In an introductory address, a member of the congregation remarked, “You would remember her if you met her.” Her influence on young people will never fade.
Clifton was born on January 27, 1922, and grew up on an East Texas farm with 17 other siblings. She grew up with a strong sense of discipline and dedication since she was raised in a home that valued hard work and family togetherness.
Clifton noted, “I was a poor girl growing up.” I was a cotton picker. My father built his own store. In the field, we assisted in growing cane, and we used the harvest to produce syrup. It was among the goods we offered for sale at the store along Highway 75, which connected Houston with Dallas and Fort Worth. Everywhere. People came and purchased it.
Her kids were likewise quite active.
According to Cynthia Austin, Clifton’s daughter, “Mom became the person she is today because she grew up knowing how to do all kinds of skills and having that family support.” She pushed herself forward and helped others by using that foundation.
A lifelong commitment to education
Black pupils in rural Texas had limited access to education, but Clifton was committed to removing obstacles. She went on to pursue higher education with the support of her family and teachers, graduating from Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M University with degrees in home economics. After that, she started a 41-year career in teaching, influencing the lives of innumerable youngsters throughout Texas as a classroom teacher and counselor.
Sandra Martin, a former student, said that Mrs. Clifton was much than simply a teacher; to many of us, she was a mentor, a guide, and a second mother. She made sure we realized that the key to our prosperity and freedom was education. I couldn’t have acquired the economic and financial knowledge that enabled me to create a secure future without her.
Martin attended Powell Point School in Kendleton, Texas, where he took Clifton’s home economics course. The school grew at the time to accommodate pupils learning to sew and cook. Her lessons laid the groundwork for giving Black students the life skills they needed to succeed.
Another former Clifton student, Carolyn Taylor Jones (Class of 55), who is now the mayor of Kendleton, stated that, even at the age of 86, she continues to uphold the morals and values that were instilled in her at that time. She learned how to be smart and financially independent from the class.
“She’s the reason I’ve done so well in my life,” Jones remarked. Her lessons taught me how to sew, which has been monetarily beneficial to me. She taught me how to do things on my own that I would otherwise have to buy.
Clifton was adamant that reading was the cornerstone of education. Her daughter remembers how she would spread her love of reading across their home and at school. According to Austin, reading was very important. She emphasized that anything can be figured out if you can read. She encouraged all of us to read books and broaden our knowledge by taking our neighbors, in addition to my brothers and me, to the library.
Clifton committed herself to community involvement outside of the classroom. From an active member to president, she was a driving force behind the civic club in her neighborhood. She became the go-to person for answers, whether it was setting up fundraisers to construct a new community fence or dealing with neighbors’ issues.
“She knew exactly who to ask if she didn’t know the answer,” Austin added. Whether she was preparing chicken dinners to raise money or going to Home Depot and learning how to build a fence yourself, she always found a way to get things done. In every way possible, she was a resourceful leader.
Her involvement in municipal affairs went much beyond infrastructure. Clifton had a strong desire to mentor young people, inspire them to value education, and help them create sustainable lives. She stuck to her message: education and perseverance open doors, even in an era when social media and rapid reward sometimes detour young minds from long-term success.
Words of wisdom
Clifton condensed the life teachings she would impart to today’s youth into three words: self-care, faith, and obedience.
First and foremost, obey God, followed by your parents and other adults. Your God will bless you if you obey him. Avoid using drugs. See a doctor if you become ill, but avoid using medicines to feel better.
She revealed the secret to a long life: Have faith in God. Respect your parents, eat healthily, and do what you are told. Rely on your parents and medical professionals. Get ready. Be worthy. You can improve your life by following your parents’ advice, but there are some things you can accomplish on your own. Seek greater education, but you can also get there by following your parents’ recommendations.
