A Bridgeport woman who turned 101 was joined Sunday by family, friends and state and local leaders in her birthday celebration.

Thelmarie Johnson was born in Macon, Georgia in 1920 when the Spanish Flu pandemic had taken millions of lives, and 101 years later, the COVID-19 pandemic has killed more than half a million Americas.

"She came up during segregation period in Atlanta," said Cathy Mebane, her niece.

Johnson is a resilient matriarch who continues to be a survivor. Her appetite for life is never waning in spite of all the years she's gaining.

"She migrated to the City of Bridgeport to make a better life for herself," Mebane explained. "I think she's a great person!"

Mebane said her aunt never had children of her own but raised her like a daughter.

"She has done so many things for us and we're so proud of her," Mebane said.

On Sunday, Mebane received some very special visitors, including some major state leaders.

"She has given of herself endlessly to her church, to the people she's cared for, to the Elks," said Sen. Richard Blumenthal.

State Sen. Dennis Bradley adds, "So many things have changed from the day that she was born until today, but so many things remain constant and that's the love of family."

Longtime family friend Charles Fuller said he thinks of Johnson like his own great-grandmother.

"Happy blessed birthday and may you have many more," Fuller wished Johnson.

Johnson has also been attending the same church for more than half a century.