110 Candles & Counting

The oldest woman in Forsyth County is celebrating her 110^th birthday  Thursday.

110 year-old Sina Joyner Hayes is a resident at the Brookridge Retirement Community in Winston-Salem. During a mid-morning stroll in her wheelchair with her social worker LaTonya Smith, Hayes said she was surprised to find out she was the oldest person in Forsyth County.

“Well, I sure didn't know it. It's kind of humbling,” said Hayes.

During a stop Smith said, “Sina, you are somewhat of a celebrity around here.” Hayes responded, “Oh boy!”

Hayes was recognized in May as the oldest living resident in Winston-Salem during the city's centennial celebration. She was born and raised in Iredell County. She moved to Forsyth County after her husband Raleigh secured a construction job with R.J. Reynolds.

Hayes said she worked in the Hanes Knitting Mill.

“It's amazing how little they paid us. I didn't make hardly anything, barely enough to get by. I was just happy to have a job,” says Hayes.

Hayes also used her knitting skills to make quilts at home. Many of her family members have one of her hand-made blankets to cherish.

Hayes life spans five generations and 16 great-great grandchildren. She credits her longevity to staying active over the years.

Last weekend, family and friends marked her 110-year milestone with a big birthday bash at Brookridge. Her 88 and 90 year-old sons also flew in from California and Texas for the celebration.