AMERICA | A remarkable 94-year-old woman from Anderson, South Carolina, named Estella Williams, has become a local hero after serving as a school crossing guard for 25 years, and she said she is not planning to drop her stop sign anytime soon.
For more than two decades, Estella stood diligently at the crosswalk outside Westside High School, ensuring that students, teachers, and community members cross safely every morning and afternoon.
“It’s good. I enjoy doing it. Yeah, I keep the kids safe, and the people too,” Estella said with a bright smile. “
Estella's Story and How She Did It
Estella’s journey as a crossing guard began unexpectedly when she was 69 years old. Her son-in-law, who worked as a police officer, needed someone to fill in for a few days, and she volunteered to help.
“My son-in-law was a policeman then. And he needed somebody, and he asked me if I would help him for a few days,” Estella recalled.
But those few days turned into years, and years turned into decades. Today, at 94, she has become the oldest crossing guard in South Carolina — and one of the oldest in the United States.
A proud mother of 18 children, Estella’s life has always been about care, patience, and service to others. Her work as a crossing guard is just another expression of that deep love for people.
Each morning, she can be seen in her reflective uniform, hat, and glasses, holding her stop sign with confidence and purpose, guiding children safely across the road as if they were her own.
“Oh yeah, I don’t let anybody stay too long. I try to keep it going. Yeah, I keep the kids safe,” she said with her signature cheerful tone.
Her dedication has not only earned her the admiration of the community but has also made her a symbol of strength, purpose, and resilience, a living reminder that age is not a barrier to making an impact.
Even after nearly a century of life, Estella says she has no plans to retire just yet. Her daily routine, filled with laughter and small conversations with students, gives her energy and joy.
“Maybe I’ll give it another year or so. Just treat everybody right — that’s my motto,” she said.
Students, teachers, and parents alike describe her as a “ray of sunshine” whose presence brightens their mornings. Many say they can not imagine crossing the road without seeing her familiar smile and hearing her warm greetings.
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