P R O C L A M A T I O N
CENTENARIAN RECOGNITION OF MRS. ORA N. BAKER PARTON
WHEREAS, it is with great joy and admiration that we celebrate the life and legacy of Mrs.
Ora N. Baker Parton, a true beacon of strength and wisdom who has reached the remarkable milestone of 100 years. She is a distinguished individual, born in 1925 in Longmont, Colorado, alongside her beloved twin sister Ollie, to proud parents James and Charlotte Buffalo; and
WHEREAS, Ora, Ollie, and their younger sisters Thelma and Charlyn were raised in Louisville, Colorado, where they enjoyed a close -knit family and the strong values instilled by their hardworking father, who spent years in the coal mines before moving the family westward in pursuit of a better life; and
WHEREAS, at the age of nine, Ora and her family relocated to Lomita, California, and eventually settled in Torrance, California, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunity and resilience; and
WHEREAS, Ora courageously contributed to the war effort during World War II by working as a riveter, helping to build airplanes and exemplifying the strength and dedication of the women of her generation. After, she continued her working life with grace and warmth, spending 20 years at Sears Department Store here in City of Torrance, and eight years as a valued employee at The Gift Corner, touching many lives along the way; and
WHEREAS, Ora married Fredrick Baker Jr. , with whom she raised two cherished daughters, Laura and Debra; and after his passing in 1992, she later married William Parton , a respected coach and teacher at West High School, who preceded her in death in 2001; and
WHEREAS, Ora is the proud grandmother of six grandsons and the joyful great - grandmother of twelve great-grandchildren, continuing to share her love and wisdom with each generatio n. Living a life of purpose, grace, and quiet strength, and continues to embrace each day with gratitude and joy.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, George K. Chen, Mayor of the City of Torrance, California, do hereby proclaim Mrs. Ora N. Baker Parton at the blessed age of 100, as
CENTENARIAN OF THE CITY OF
TORRANCE
and wish her a continued long life, prosperity, and the esteem of the entire community for a distinguished and incredible life.
Signed this 20th day of May 2025.
George K. Chen, Mayor
ATTEST:
Rebecca Poirier, City Clerk