Rebecca Field Henslee, Coker’s oldest living alum, celebrated her 104th birthday on Saturday, June 7.
Ms. Henslee was born on June 7, 1910 in Dillon, SC. After graduation from Coker College in 1931 with degrees in both Latin and Music/Piano, she furthered her studies in New York City and London earning a Master’s Degree in Music/Piano.
Ms. Henslee served on the faculty of State College in Pennsylvannia for years before returning to teach piano to many students over the next 50+ years in Dillon.
The 1942 Serpentine Yearbook of State College had this description of Ms. Henslee, “You’ll find her friendly, yet quiet and retiring. An artist in the field of piano. She is a valuable member of the music faculty. She studied at the Eastman Conservatory. She has given some sparkling recitals.”
It sounds as if Ms. Henslee has always been a great ambassador and supporter of Coker College. In fact, to make sure her support of Coker continues, Ms. Henslee established in May of 1999 the Rebecca Field Henslee Endowed Scholarship.
She celebrated her 104th birthday with cake and ice cream and the company of friends and family.
