Friends and family gather to celebrate a century of Grace.
Tallahassee prepares to celebrate Graciela Guzman Arevalo Sessions, known as Grace, on her 100th birthday. Born in El Salvador, her life journey is filled with determination, service, and joy. Friends and family will gather on January 11, 2025, to honor her rich legacy and inspiring spirit. Grace’s story spans from her Olympic basketball achievements to her community work in Tallahassee, showcasing a life dedicated to family, friendship, and service.
In the bustling city of Tallahassee, friends and family are gearing up to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone. Graciela Guzman Arevalo Sessions, affectionately known as Grace, is about to turn a century old! Born on January 9, 1925, in the beautiful landscapes of San Miguel, El Salvador, Grace’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
As the second of twelve siblings, Grace grew up in a lively household where she enjoyed a happy childhood on her father’s farm. Those early years were filled with sunshine, laughter, and love. She attended a Catholic school where basketball became a passion, and her athletic talent led her to represent El Salvador in the Olympics during the 1940s. Those were truly formative years that laid the foundation for a life rich with experiences.
In 1961, Grace took a bold step by moving to the United States, settling in the vibrant city of New Orleans. There, she worked at the El Salvador Consulate, immersing herself in a new culture and learning English along the way. It wasn’t long before she met and fell in love with John Sessions, a romance that blossomed into marriage in 1963. The pair later relocated to John’s hometown of Tallahassee in 1973, where Grace found her place in the community.
In Tallahassee, Grace’s work continued with a twelve-year stint at the Leon County Tax Collector’s Office. But her dedication to service didn’t stop there. She volunteered at Capital Regional Hospital for an impressive 25 years, receiving numerous accolades for her selfless contributions. One of her favorite activities was knitting caps for newborns, a heartfelt way to give back to the community.
Though she faced heartbreak with the passing of her husband, Johnny, on November 4, 2012, Grace has remained a beacon of joy among her many friends and family. Fondly referred to as fun-loving, gracious, and a tad mischievous, she has nurtured lasting friendships in Tallahassee since moving there. Gardening has been a lifelong passion of hers, and though she wishes she could still pull weeds, she finds joy in the beauty of her flowers and the birds that visit her backyard.
Grace’s family ties extend beyond American borders. Most of her nieces and nephews live in El Salvador, where they treat her like a queen during her visits. Her close nephew, Guillermo Montoya, who is like a son to her, resides in northern California, while her niece, Elizabeth Parker-Vallejo, lives in North Carolina. Both plans to travel to Tallahassee in January to celebrate Grace’s momentous birthday.
The big celebration is set for January 11, 2025, where friends will gather at her home to shower her with love and well-wishes. Just a few days earlier, on January 5, she will be warmly greeted in the Parish Hall after the 10:30 Mass at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, a community she has been a part of since 1974.
Grace still cooks her meals and follows a healthy diet and exercise routine that she believes has played a crucial role in her reaching the impressive age of 100. She credits her doctor at Capital Health Plan, Dr. Stanley Gwock, for his support in maintaining her health over the years.
As the community prepares to celebrate Grace’s life and legacy, it’s evident that her spirit continues to inspire everyone around her. Here’s to many more years filled with joy, friendship, and love!
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