At 106 years old, Arnita Bennett Smith says resilience, faith, and the power of family. The Northeast Louisiana native recently celebrated her milestone birthday surrounded by loved ones, reflecting on a life well-lived and the blessings that have kept her going.
Smith’s story is even more remarkable because she can live independently at an age when most people require daily assistance.
“I like oxtails, pig tails, all that, chicken. I can cook it,” she told Atlanta News First.
While she occasionally asks for help, Smith takes pride in managing her daily life on her own. Her recent birthday celebration was a joyous occasion, even though she was feeling under the weather.
“What I did for my birthday? I was in the bed sick, but all them children come and I forgot I was sick,” she recalled. “They gave me a good birthday.”
A Legacy of Faith and Family
Smith’s life has been deeply rooted in her faith and community.
Alongside her late husband, she co-founded the First Pilgrim Baptist Church in Monroe, a cornerstone of her family’s spiritual life. Today, her family continues to attend the church, carrying on the legacy she helped build.
Her granddaughter, Laconstica Smith, spoke about the invaluable wisdom and love her grandmother has shared.
“You can’t measure that,” she said. “That type of wisdom, that type of love, that type of grace.”
Recognition from the Community
Smith’s remarkable longevity and contributions to her community have not gone unnoticed.
Councilwoman Juanita Woods plans to honor her with a proclamation, recognizing her as one of Monroe’s oldest and most cherished residents.
“I’m so happy to know Ms. Smith,” Woods said. “Ms. Smith has a beautiful spirit, a beautiful personality. She is an amazing, an amazing lady.”
The Secret to a Long Life
When asked about her secret to living such a long and fulfilling life, Smith points to her faith.
“I’m doing fine. The Lord is blessing me, and I’m still able to move around,” she said. Her unwavering belief in God and the support of her family have been the foundation of her resilience.
As Arnita Bennett Smith continues to inspire those around her, her story serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, family, and community.
At 106, she is not just surviving—she is thriving, proving that a life well-lived is its own greatest reward.
