Family and friends gathered on October 11, 2025, to celebrate the 100th birthday of Olean P. Littlejohn, a beloved resident of Paris. The milestone occasion was marked with a celebration at Paris New Generation Baptist Church, where loved ones shared stories and heartfelt tributes honoring the family’s matriarch.
Mrs. Littlejohn is the wife of the late Rev. C. H. Littlejohn, also of Paris, Texas. Born on October 8, 1925, Olean has been a faithful member of Oak Hill Missionary Baptist Church and a longtime former member of Solid Rock Missionary Baptist Church. Over the past century, she has witnessed remarkable changes, from the Roaring Twenties to the digital age, always meeting life with a twinkle in her eye and gratitude for its simple blessings.
Family members say Olean credits her longevity to maintaining a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a lifelong love for church service and cooking. She enjoys reading the Bible and spending time with her loved ones. Even in her seventies, she remained active, walking three miles a day at the old Paris High School track when she was 71.
A Life of Dedication
Mrs. Littlejohn spent her early years in Direct, Texas, before moving to Brookston and eventually to Paris, where she built a life rooted in faith and family. She worked as a housekeeper for 14 years and later at Regan’s Department Store for nine years.
Known for her generosity and hospitality, she has long been a central figure in the community, serving her church family and sharing her most famous dishes with anyone in need of comfort or a good meal.
In 1947, she married Robert T. Minor, and together they raised five children:
- Thelma Jo Biglow (Kenneth) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Linda (Minor) Fuller of Paris
- Billy Ray Minor (deceased)
- Robert T. Minor Jr. (Shirley) of Paris
- Larry Glen Minor (Sheilar) of Paris
Years later, she remarried Rev. C. H. Littlejohn on September 26, 1981, and the two shared 35 years of marriage until his passing in 2016.
A Lasting Legacy
The love and admiration Mrs. Littlejohn’s family holds for her was evident throughout the centennial celebration. One granddaughter shared,
“Our grandmother has always been a shining example of how to live with joy, faith, and strength. Her kindness has touched so many people.”
Today, Mrs. Littlejohn, affectionately known as “Big Mama”, is the proud matriarch of a large and loving family that includes five children, 14 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. Her life stands as a powerful testament to faith, resilience, and unconditional love.
As Big Mama begins her next chapter, her family and friends hope this special milestone shines a light on a century of service, grace, and devotion. The community is invited to join in celebrating and wishing Mrs. Olean P. “Big Mama” Littlejohn a very happy 100th birthday.
Mrs. Littlejohn was kind enough to spend a few minutes with the MyParis staff to answer a couple of questions for the reading audience. The transcript is included below:
Q: What are the biggest changes you have seen in the world during your lifetime?
A: “The world has turned away from Jesus. Without Him, we are lost.”
Q: What are some of the happiest moments of your life?
A: “Being the mother of my children and seeing my family grow. Family is everything.”
Q: What’s one piece of advice that you would give to younger generations?
A: “Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior. Turn to Him in all things.”
Q: What do you think is the secret to living a long life?
A: “Keeping Jesus Christ close to your heart and having a relationship with Him.”
Article and photo credits: MyParisTexas Staff and Deanna Harris
