Social - October 2003

Triumphs and tragedies mark a century of living

By DIANE TURBYFILL, Staff Writer

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Infectious laughter, soft storytelling and gentle gesturing characterize Ola Hoffman.

“She has a humble heart,” says the Rev. Gary Dittman of Emmanual Lutheran Church.

Dittman and members of the church come to see Ola often at Lincoln Nursing Center. Their visits are out of ministry and love, but Ola might just be the one ministering.

Spending 30 minutes with the 99 year old educates and entertains. She tells stories of her childhood — growing up in Cleveland County, the oldest daughter of John and Lona Huss.

Ola recalls lying on the floor of her bedroom reading books and doing homework by oil lamp.

“I’d read every book I could get a hold of,” she says.

She remembers times when reading had to come second. She spent a lot of her time helping her mother with the children. Her assistance became increasingly important at age 11 when her father was killed.

“It made it a little tough on my mother,” she says. “I learned a lot about babies.”

And news of her knowledge spread to her aunts.

“They’d always holler ‘Ola, come help with the children,’” she laughs.

Ola never shied away from hard work.

When Ola and her husband separated, she immediately found employment.

“After we parted I went to work,” she says. “My first job was at the shell plant. We were making great big shells.”

Though the country was at war, Ola fondly remembers her experiences driving to Charlotte every day to work.

Whether it was working in a plant, making alterations as a seamstress or running a hotel, she found value in each one of her careers.

“I loved working,” she says. “I always liked my job no matter what it was.”

Aside from her strong work ethic, Ola is most proud of her travels. The little girl from Waco saw an opportunity to travel and took it.

When Ola’s daughter Martha moved to California, she went, too. Sticking close to Martha also took Ola to Washington, DC, Arkansas, Florida and Pennsylvania. But California was her favorite — though she has memories of startling earthquakes.

“They have a different lifestyle out there,” she laughs.

When it was time to retire, Ola returned to Lincolnton where she and her husband had lived years before.

Even in retirement Ola baby-sat and worked in the childcare industry. She maintained her independence until the age of 94.

Ola lost her eyesight to macular degeneration. Because of a fall, she required care and moved to Lincoln Nursing Center.

She enjoys visits from Dittman, members of the congregation and her son and daughter-in-law, John and Betty Hoffman.

Ola’s friends and family will celebrate her birthday three days early on Oct. 12 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at the church.

Ola laughs when she talks about her life — the tragedies, triumphs and longevity.

“I’ve been here a long time,” she says.

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

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