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Laura Coleman, a resident of East Pavilion in Franklin, celebrated her 104th birthday on Thursday, April 6, and was given a certificate of recognition from Franklin Mayor Robert “Bobby” Cutchins. Coleman was born in 1919 in nearby Greensville County. She is the eldest of nine siblings and began working early with her family on her farm. Her favorite thing about her farm was her mule that she named Annie, and she still talks about her to this day. Coleman and her husband, Edward, were married for around 60 years. He passed away in 2004. Laura was employed at MCV as the elevator operator, and she was eventually promoted to supervisor. She spent 65 years working at MCV and then retired from there. She enjoys many different things, including singing along to old Christian hymns, cooking and sewing; however, her favorite thing to do is fishing. Coleman has around 50 nieces and nephews whom she loves dearly. “Mrs. Coleman is very sweet and has so many good stories,” East Pavilion officials said. “It is always good to see her around the building!” From all of us here at The Tidewater News happy birthday Mrs. Coleman. (Send “Way to Go!” photos with a description and names to editor@TheTidewaterNews.com.)