Oldest 'Working Man' In Texas Turns 101, Still Drinks 2 Dr. Peppers A Day

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Considered the oldest man still working in Texas, Chester Hollingsworth celebrated his 101st birthday today.

"Today is my birthday. October the 18th 1917," he said with a smile.

The World War II veteran, Dallas entrepreneur and beloved friend and family man received a special birthday message from his company.

Hollingsworth helped start what's now known as the Dallas Flooring Warehouse. He tried retiring twice before, but kept coming back and now spends two days a week working there.

"I just like to be with people. I don't mind working," said Hollingsworth affectionately.

Born and raised on a farm near Greenville, Hollingsworth helped his family raise cotton.

"We had a Model T Ford, and it was a terrible way to get around."

As a young man Hollingsworth went on to sign up for the Navy a day after Pearl Harbor was attacked. He eventually wound up out west.

"About a month later I got a notice in the mail with a train ticket to go to San Diego, California."

Hollingsworth has had a storied life... no doubt, and he said the secret for him is a simple one.

"Dr. Pepper," he laughed.

That's right, Hollingsworth drinks a Dr. Pepper twice a day.

But perhaps the real key for a long and healthy life and career is one he shared with all those at his birthday party.

"If you can get a job, where you love your job and love to go to work that's what you want."