A complete surprise is the best description for a birthday party/reception held for Eunice Rebecca Josey of Climax in honor of her 80th birthday on Saturday Jan 24. The venue for the affair was Bainbridge Community Center on Potter Street.

Becky as she is lovingly called by her family and friends thought she was going to an antique auction, and had no idea what was awaiting her behind the hanging curtain. As she entered the building a large curtain was hanging over the entrance to the room. When she got closer the curtain was dropped and guest began to sing “Happy Birthday!”

Expecting to see antiques and the building full of people making ready for an auction, she said, “I thought these people are my relatives! Then she saw the massive wall hanging with her picture of then and now. A large magnolia bloom her favorite flower, and giant words wishing her a Happy 80th birthday and telling her she was loved.

Guest were seated at tables draped in yellow cloths with centerpieces of bud vases holding pictures of Becky as a child as part of the flower arrangement.

The lace covered table holding the large birthday cake and punch bowl was centered under the giant wall banner. Other lace covered tables held finger food of different delicacies. Happy birthday balloons floated around the room anchored in different points

After a warm welcome by her son Wayne Josey, and prayer by son Eddie Josey, siblings Jean Ann Ouzts, Ray Boyett, and Myra Seals along with Cousin Porchia Boyett shared stories of fun times with the birthday girl. Then she had to follow clues on a scavenger hunt to find the pot of gold, which was a mixture of birthday presents, cards, and antique jewelry such as old brooches. Becky had many face expression of excitement as the party continued. Then as an encore as she and her guests enjoyed refreshments and the birthday cake, as they watched a video of Becky and her 80 years as her children and grandchildren grew up. Prayer was also offered by her pastor Elder Emery Carlton.

Hosting the event were children; Linda and Jesse Reynolds, Wayne and Judy Josey, Eddie and Sandy Josey, and making the banner, and all the centerpieces, along with book marks as tokens for the guests was granddaughter Jennifer Searan. Assisting in catering was Niece Robin Ouzts, and sister-in-law Nancy Boyett.