3 days ago
Marlin Man Celebrates 100 Years of Life, Legacy, and Faith
MARLIN, Texas (FOX 44) — James 'J.T.' Modkins, a lifelong resident of Marlin, Texas, turned 100 years old on May 28, marking a century of life defined by service, resilience, and unwavering faith. He's currently a resident at the Golden Years nursing home, where they held a celebration for him on his birthday.
Born in 1925, Modkins has lived through some of the most pivotal moments in American history — from the era of Jim Crow laws and the Great Depression to World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic. Looking back, he calls it nothing short of a gift. 'It's really a blessing,' Modkins said.
Throughout his life, Modkins has been a steadfast pillar in the Marlin community.
'I spent 20 years with Marlin Housing Authority, I spent 18 years for the country club off and on, and then I retired in '95 and I went to start driving cabs, running around doing this and that,' James said.
Modkins also devoted much of his time to his church, serving as both a deacon and superintendent of Sunday School at the Church of the Living God Pillar & Ground of the Truth (PGT). Having witnessed a century of change in his hometown, Modkins reflects on how the city has evolved.
'It changes about every ten, twelve years — different from where it's going, anyway,' he said. 'So that's the way that goes. You got to be able to change with that.'
James expressed how grateful he is to have lived such a full life and watching his family expand. A motto he lives by is 'always do the best you can do'.
Married to his late wife Emma for more than 70 years, Modkins is the father of six children. Emma Modkins passed away three years ago at age 92.
Their youngest daughter, Mary Modkins-Henderson, said her father remains the same steadfast figure he's always been.
'It's a blessing because it doesn't happen every day, and he's been the best dad ever,' she said. 'He worked three, four, five jobs in order to supply us with everything that we need.'
Despite the challenges and triumphs of 100 years, Modkins credits his longevity and outlook to his faith.
'He told me, 'In His word,' he said, 'to do the best that you can do, and when you have done your best, I'll take over if you can't do the rest,'' Modkins said.
As the Modkins family celebrates the life of their family patriarch, they will continue living with love and their faith at their core.
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