97-year-old Mississippi woman receives honorary high school diploma

A 97-year-old Mississippi woman received an honorary high school diploma from the Bay-Waveland School District, according to WLOX/Gray News.

Etta Mae Williams left school at a young age to help support her family and was unable to complete her education. She had attempted to return to school years later, but the COVID-19 pandemic prevented her plans.

Williams donned a cap and gown and accepted the diploma as a member of the Class of 2026, expressing that she had patiently waited a long time for this moment.

Her great-niece, Britney Williams, highlighted the determination it took for her to keep striving despite having to drop out to help her family after her father's passing.

The superintendent of the Bay-Waveland School District, Sandra Reed, said it was an easy decision to award the diploma, especially after learning all eight of Williams' children graduated from Bay High School.

Mississippi Representative Jeffrey Hulum III also presented Williams with a proclamation recognizing her hard work and perseverance.