It was a night filled with sparkle, laughter, and community pride as more than 3,500 seniors gathered for the City of Atlanta’s 2025 Senior Ball — fittingly themed “The Age of Elegance.” Hosted at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, the annual event honored the city’s elder residents for their lifelong service, resilience, and contributions that continue to shape Atlanta’s future.
Mayor Andre Dickens joined the celebration, calling it one of his favorite traditions of the year. “You show up for your city, for your neighbors, and for your families. Tonight, we are showing up for you,” he told the crowd.
Honoring a Lifetime of Grace
The highlight of the evening came as Mayor Dickens crowned this year’s King and Queen of the Senior Ball: King Charles Wilson, age 98, and Queen Kathleen Scott McCray Addison, age 105.
Mr. Wilson, a lifelong Atlantan, served as a U.S. Army veteran and former drum major at Booker T. Washington High School. Known for his sharp wit and community pride, he remains a loyal fan of the Braves, Bulldogs, and—on a good day—the Falcons.
Mrs. Addison, who has dedicated her life to work and faith, spent years serving her community as a librarian, security guard, and at the Valdosta Country Club. Her family describes her as “a Godly woman who has set the ultimate example of what love, humility, and faith look like.”
The Mayor presented the royal pair with celebratory plaques and gifts in honor of their extraordinary lives and contributions.
A Family Moment on the Dance Floor
The evening’s energy rose even higher when Mayor Dickens took to the dance floor, joining seniors as the band played timeless hits. Guests dined, laughed, and competed in the Best Dressed Contest hosted by Atlanta style icon Miss Lawrence—proving that age is no barrier to confidence or flair.
A Night to Remember
Supported by generous sponsors including MARTA, Chick-fil-A, Loop Capital, Kaiser Permanente, Aetna, Amazon, HealthSpring, and the Hudson Group, this year’s Senior Ball was a true reflection of Atlanta’s love and respect for its elders.
As the night came to a close, the ballroom buzzed with joy—a reminder that Atlanta’s seniors are not just part of its history, but the heartbeat of its future.
