Drive-by Birthday Celebration for Tallahassee Centenarian

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100-year old Rod Dugger waves to well-wishers as they drive by.
Tom Flanigan

Even birthday celebrations have changed in the age of COVID-19. A party became a parade the evening of Monday, April 27 to mark a Tallahassee man's 100th year.

100-year old Rod Dugger waves to well-wishers as they drive by.
Credit Tom Flanigan

A seemingly endless stream of vehicles bearing friends and relatives slowly cruised by Trinity United Methodist Church on Park Avenue. Seated in front of the church waving to all passersby was the centennial celebrant, Rod Dugger. Even his protective mask couldn't hide the smile in his voice.

"I've had a wonderful life and wonderful family. I did go into the service, called in twice and made it through both of them, thank goodness," he remarked.

After naval service in World War Two and the Korean War, Dugger was back in Tallahassee and became a successful businessman. Now retired, he promises his second hundred years will be a bit less hectic than his first.

Copyright 2020 WFSU

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