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North Texas' oldest volunteer, 105, doesn't plan on slowing down

Every week, Clarence Griffith drives to Baylor University Medical Center to volunteer at the unbelievable age of 105.

When the man behind the wheel of the car you're riding in first learned how to drive in a Model T, you're bound to have some reservations.

Back to that in a moment.

Because the most amazing thing about Clarence Griffith is that, every week, he still drives to Baylor University Medical Center to volunteer at the unbelievable age of 105.

“I keep trying to get them to let me retire, and they won’t do it," he said.

"He's a rock star when it comes to volunteering," said Baylor chaplain Mike Davis.

"And he drives, so he's got his license. It's amazing," said manager of volunteer services Denise Renfro.

"Why are they amazed I can still drive?" Clarence asked. "They just think, 'Well, he’s 105, he’s just a freak.'”

To be fair, Clarence has driven all over the world. He served in World War II and Korea, then worked most of his life running an electric company.

"I was busy as a cat on a tin roof," he said.

Clarence even remembers when social security started back in 1935.

“I raised an 'ol bit a hell," he said. "They took 18 cents out of my $9.”

Today, he helps people just like him.

Clarence first came to Baylor University Medical Center as a patient. Way back when he was just 94, he had triple bypass surgery. But even after that, his heart was still hurting.

"My wife had passed away, and I was lonely," he said.

So he started volunteering, helping patients and comforting families.

For the past 10 years, he has been a steady ray of light -- even on his birthday.

As a way to say thank you, the hospital celebrated. "This is all a surprise," Clarence said.

Clarence says as much as they've needed him, he needed them too. “When you’re with people you’re not lonely," he said. "I’m not.”

At this point, it's good to admit, Clarence wasn't a fan of our camera.

“Oh, that thing is worrying the hell out of me," he said.

Clarence says he hasn't done anything to deserve this much attention. He simply saw a need and decided to help.

But that's the thing about Clarence Griffith. We may celebrate another year of life, but for Clarence it's just 365 more days to do what's right.

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