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Louvenia Faulk White is turning 100 on April 6 and credits it all to hard work and the Lord.

White was born in Suffolk as the fourth child of 17 children to James and Catherine Rodgers Faulk.

Even though she was born and is now in Suffolk, she hasn’t always stayed in Virginia. She loves to travel and has visited Africa and taken extensive cruises.

“I am just blessed to be here,” said White.

In 1956, White moved to be with her sister in Philadelphia. Family is very important to White, and it can be seen in her actions throughout the years. After moving to Philadelphia, White worked at a restaurant and ended up buying her own. Many of her family that also moved there can credit their first job to Lou White’s Restaurant or her other two where they would work while getting on their feet. Even though White had no biological children, she took care of her family and any other child that came across her path.

Once moving back to Suffolk in 1984, she built her house off Whaleyville Boulevard, where she let many family members stay. She also played a large part in creating their family incorporation, Family Affair Inc.

“Her goal was when we get together not to spend money on hotels but have somewhere for family functions since we have a large family,” said Gail Milteer, White’s niece. “She also created a fund there so when family was in need they didn’t need to go to a bank to get a loan. The family was there to help.”

According to White, her secret to a long life is working hard, which she has her whole life. She worked in cotton and tobacco fields, owned three restaurants and once she retired, she worked as a substitute cafeteria worker in Suffolk schools.

“I’ve worked all my life,” said White. “All day and all night.”

White also enjoyed serving at her church. In Philadelphia, she served 25 years on the usher board at First United Baptist Church. Once she came back, she joined her home church of Mt. Ararat Church, where she continued serving on the usher board, women’s fellowship and food committees.

“The Lord is keeping me,” said White. “Without God, can’t do nothing. He trying to keep me humble and kind.”

Humble and kind is White’s life motto.

“She truly lives her motto,” said Michele Faulk, White’s niece-in-law. “She has had hard work, determination, and the Lord on her side.”

White is also a cancer survivor who did not go through chemotherapy, and she firmly believes that one day there will be a cure.

“Work hard and enjoy life,” said White.

The family is hosting a drive-by party at 2:30 p.m. on April 3, past Family Affair, 3262 Jackson Road.