A hundred-year-old World War II veteran and former teacher continues to serve his community as a crossing guard in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with no plans to retire.
Aging is a truth that none of us can ignore. We see our bodies change, our youthful energy fade, and our words lose their boldness. However, aging is truly a blessing from God.
The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 16:31, “The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.”
As the years pass, many of us begin to think it is time to step back from the things we love or the calling God placed on our lives.
But one 100-year-old man in Milwaukee shows us that purpose does not retire and that God can still use willing hearts at any age.
A Century of Service
Every morning and afternoon, Julius Campbell walks to the corner of 51st Boulevard and Roosevelt Drive. He stands there to help the children of Yeshiva Elementary School cross the street safely.
Campbell has worked as a crossing guard for 30 years now. He only started this job when he was 69 years old. Before that, he was a third grade teacher for Milwaukee Public Schools. Even earlier in his life, he served in the Navy during World War II.
Turning 100 years old is a big milestone for anyone. Most people would have stopped working long ago, but Campbell says he has no plans to retire. He enjoys being around the students because it keeps him active and engaged.
“I just like working with kids,” Campbell said.
He believes that the relationships he has built with the families in the neighborhood are too important to let go. He told reporters that while the work is not always easy or fun, he treasures the love and respect he finds in the community.
Faith and a Promise
Campbell is a man of deep faith. He grew up with a calling to preach at the age of 14 and later started his own church in 1958. He holds several degrees, including a doctorate in counseling and a master’s in theology.
For him, serving others is more than a job. It is a hobby and a way of life. He spends his time consulting, ministering, and helping families with food and clothing programs.
His secret to living such a long life is very simple. He points to having a purpose and having strong faith. “I made a promise and I’m going to keep it until the end if it’s possible. If it’s God’s will,” he said.
When people ask what that promise is, he explains that he vowed to do whatever the Lord desired of him. He is determined to keep going as long as he is able.
Honors and Future Goals
The city of Milwaukee has taken notice of his hard work. The Milwaukee Police Department recently gave him the Chief’s Superior Leadership Award. Chief Jeffrey Norman called him an inspiration.
Campbell was also honored by the mayor with his own special day in February.
Campbell is very grateful for the life he has lived. “I’d like to give thanks to all people. They have made me what I am,” he shared. His milestone birthday on December 3rd was a time for the whole community to celebrate him.
Looking ahead, Campbell has a new goal. He wants to live to be 104 years old. He plans to stay healthy so he can keep serving. He doesn’t want to miss the “love and connection” he feels at his post.
Mr. Campbell’s story really makes us think about our own lives and the excuses we sometimes make. If he can stand on a street corner at 100 years old because he made a promise to God, then we can surely find a way to serve right where we are.
We should stop looking at our age. Instead, let’s ask God to provide the strength and wisdom to continue working for His kingdom until our last breath.
Please keep Mr. Campbell in your prayers.
WATCH: 100-Year-Old WWII Veteran Still Working as a Crossing Guard Has No Plans to Retire
