With a heart full of love and a life steeped in faith, Daisy Rhem has touched many lives over her 109 remarkable years. Born in 1916, in Amelia, South Carolina, to Eleanor Gaylord and Watson Smith, her journey through life has taken her from the humble countryside to the vibrant cities of Detroit, Michigan, and the Bronx, New York—where she would meet and marry the love of her life, Thomas Rhem, Sr.
Sister Rhem devoted most of her working years to domestic service, pouring care and dedication into every home she entered. A nurturing mother of six, she raised her family with strength, humility, and an unwavering love for God. She endured the loss of five of her children, yet continued to exemplify faith and resilience throughout her life.
Her spiritual walk began at the First Ghana church in the Bronx. She later worshipped at the Living Waters church, which eventually merged to form Wakefield church—where she remained a cherished member.
Although miles now separate her from her Wakefield church family, Sister Rhem remains deeply connected to them. Faithful members continue to call and visit her regularly—especially on Sabbaths—bringing worship, fellowship, and joy to her home. Ever the encourager, she always reminds them to love God and one another.
At 109, Sister Rhem still honors the Sabbath by studying her Sabbath School lesson every Saturday morning. Her favorite scripture, John 14:1–7, remains her anchor and guiding light. In her earlier years, she found joy in sewing, completing puzzles, and ministering to the sick and shut-in.
Sister Rhem is the proud grandmother of six, great-grandmother of eight, and great-great-grandmother of two. Her life is a living legacy of grace, service, and faithfulness. She continues to inspire all who know and love her.
Romone Phoenix, Wakefield church pastor, wrote a touching tribute on behalf of the church family. During a celebration in her honor, he shared, “At 109 years old, she stands as a bridge between eras, a witness to history, and a keeper of stories that stretch across generations.” He added, “To live to 109 is a rare and remarkable feat—but to live with such kindness, strength, and dignity is the true achievement. She reminds us that age is not just a number—it is a badge of honor, earned through courage, patience, and an unshakable spirit.”
Ariel Manzueta, Greater New York Conference (GNYC) executive secretary, brought words of blessing to Sis. Rhem. “She is not only a living testament to God’s sustaining grace, but also a vivid reminder of the eternal life Christ has promised to all who believe.” He added, “We give praise to God for her lifelong witness and pray that each of us might follow her example of faithfulness until our Lord’s triumphant return.”
In honor of her many decades of faithfulness, Alanzo Smith, GNYC president, sent Sister Rhem an official letter of tribute. In it he shared, “It gives me great honor to celebrate the faithfulness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to you. For He has kept you and upheld you with His righteous right hand. Thank you for your many years of service to Christ, the church, and the community, and for representing our Savior in efforts and character. May the salvation of our Lord and Savior continuously abound in your heart with hope until His glorious appearance.”
From the final days of World War I to the age of smartphones and AI, Daisy Rhem has lived through more than a century of extraordinary change. Yet, through it all, her steady faith, quiet strength, and enduring love have remained constant. Her life is not only a testament to longevity, but to the power of God’s love in someone’s heart.
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Jenny Scott-Davis Haughton, elder, Wakefield church, and Clavour Tucker, communication director, Greater New York Conference
