HENDERSON — The bridge community at Henderson Country Club came together on March 1, 2024, to celebrate the 100th birthday of its esteemed founder, Edna Tyson. The centenarian marked the occasion with a festive gathering attended by her two sons, four grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren, who all shared in the joy of her remarkable milestone.
Edna Tyson’s journey began long before the establishment of the club. She fondly recalled her late husband, Joe Tyson, a World War II veteran who returned home about a year after the war ended. “He was one of the few typists they could find,” Edna recounted to the attendees, explaining that Joe played a crucial role in typing orders for soldiers returning home. Shortly after his return, they married and eventually settled in Henderson in 1969, coinciding with the founding of Vance-Granville Community College.
Over the years, Edna became a prominent figure in the local bridge scene, teaching the game at the college and fostering a love for it among her students. On her birthday, she was surrounded by former students and club members who expressed their gratitude for her guidance and wisdom. Edna’s infectious spirit shone through as she shared her light-hearted philosophy on bridge, stating, “What’s most fun about bridge is meeting people, not the cards.”
The Henderson Country Club bridge club has flourished under Edna’s leadership, expanding to nearly 100 members. Some members travel significant distances, with individuals commuting from as far as Cary to participate in games. Among the attendees was Chip Hughes, who credited both Edna and himself for the club’s growth. He has been pivotal in integrating technology into their games, enhancing the overall experience for players.
Another long-time member, Billie Frazier, joined the club in 2014 and shared a piece of advice Edna once offered her: “You can exercise your body all you want, but you need to exercise your mind.” Reflecting on Edna’s sharp wit, club member Dee Tippett noted, “At 100 years old, she sounds sharp as a tack. She knows her numbers.” Edna humorously remarked that she is particularly skilled at remembering how much money people owe her, eliciting laughter from the crowd.
The celebration highlighted not just Edna’s contributions to the game of bridge but also her enduring values. Sharon Stark, another club member, recounted Edna’s advice on living a fulfilling life, emphasizing the importance of the three F’s: “Faith, family, and friends, with faith as the foundation.”
As Edna Tyson embarks on her second century, her legacy continues to inspire both seasoned players and newcomers alike, reflecting the bonds formed through the game of bridge and the community she has built over the years.
