By Vareva Harris | Vareva@thewoodrufftimes.com
New Bethel Baptist Church celebrated the 90th birthday of Mrs. Hennie Wannamaker Blackman, honoring a life marked by faith, service, and dedication to family and community.
A longtime and devoted member of New Bethel Baptist Church, Mrs. Blackman is widely respected for her unwavering commitment to the church and her quiet leadership through decades of service. Her influence has extended beyond the sanctuary, touching generations through her example of Christian stewardship, perseverance, and compassion.
Church leaders and members joined by Mrs. Blackman’s family and friends recognized this milestone, reflecting on her contributions to the spiritual life of the congregation as a Sunday School teacher and her 30 years of service as a teacher in Spartanburg School District Four to the broader community. The celebration served not only as a birthday observance, but also as a tribute to a legacy built on faith, love, and service.
Mrs. Sonja Wannamaker McIntosh, Mrs. Blackman niece, calls her “the rock of their family.” She is a confidant and shares her wisdom liberally. She always made birthdays special for all of her children by baking their favorite cakes.” It’s really special to have the church and community celebrate her birthday.
She has spent many years making others feel special. My Aunt Hennie is the epitome of impeccable leadership, impressive loyalty to her family along with the community and her importance as a classic role model.”
New Bethel Baptist Church invites the community to join in honoring Mrs. Blackman and celebrating 90 years of a life well lived by attending Sunday School any Sunday. Mrs. Blackman is the Sunday School teacher. Sunday School starts at 10 am.


