ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — On Saturday, Lillie Mae Hightower celebrated her 103rd birthday with the help of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, McDonough Police Department and McDonough Fire Department.

The agencies lined the streets for a parade, just as they’ve done since Hightower turned 100.

“It’s more than I can say,” Hightower said.

“Because we moved her from her house, the only thing she was worried about this year was, ‘If we’re not at home, where are we gonna do my parade?’” Karla Mitchell, one of Hightower’s granddaughters, said. “So we definitely made sure we would make it happen for her because she looks forward to it.”

Hightower was the head cook at Johnson County High School for 35 years. Those who love her say her passions and her kindness keep her young.

“She is the sweetest, most kindest person you’ll ever meet. Which I think contributes to her longevity. Because if you do right by others, others will do right by you,” Mitchell explained. “And she’s been able to do that for her entire life.”

This holiday season, Hightower can be a reminder to us all.

“If you still have your parents with you, especially your mom, just love on her,” Joann Suing, Hightower’s daughter, said. “And never let a day go by without telling her you love her.”

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