Local

Covington woman celebrates 104th birthday with drive-by parade, call from favorite singer

A woman in Newton County celebrated a special milestone this week. Covington resident Martha Malcolm turned 104 years old on Tuesday. Those who know Malcolm best tell Channel 2 Action News that she loves to make friends with everyone she meets.

“Everybody who meets her or spends any time with her leaves feeling better because she’s so delightful," Debbie Anderson said.

Anderson shared with Channel 2 video of the special celebration they put together for Malcolm. Family and friends treated her to a drive-by parade and even a phone call from her favorite singer, Harry Connick, Jr.

Mrs. Martha Malcolm had a spectacular day! She thoroughly enjoyed her "Drive-By Birthday Parade", and was thrilled to see lots of loved ones, friends, and family. She also got a telephone call from her favorite celebrity, HARRY CONNICK, JR. Yes, Harry called her! He even sang "Happy Birthday" to her. I thought we had a video of the whole conversation, but unfortunately, this is all we got. She was really excited to talk to him, and he was so gracious and sweet to her! What a day! Thank you to all who participated! THANK YOU, MERRYVALE STAFF!!! Y’all did sooooo much to make today perfect!

Posted by Deborah Debbie Anderson on Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Malcolm was born on Sept. 29, 1916 to a family of farmers in Morgan County. She is the oldest of four siblings but the only one still living. Malcolm spent most of her adult life in Newton County, where she raised a family with her husband.

Martha and Marion Malcolm were married for 53 years before his death. They have two daughters, five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and six great-great grandchildren.

From all us at Channel 2, we hope Martha had a wonderful birthday!