A very warm Happy Birthday and congratulations to our client Doreen who turned 100 this week. An incredible achievement and milestone for such a wonderful lady.
We asked Doreen and her loved ones a few questions this week to celebrate her birthday.
Where was Doreen brought up?
Doreen was born in Edgbaston, Birmingham 04/01/1921. She then moved to Bourneville, Birmingham.
Mother & Father’s occupation?
Doreen’s mother, Florence, was a housewife and her father, Henry, was a Chargehand at Cadbury’s Bourneville.
Doreen’s occupation?
Doreen followed her father and worked at the Cadbury’s factory decorating Milk Trays before the war. She then went to work in an armament’s factory during the war.
When did Doreen marry?
Doreen married her late husband, Eric, in 1943. Eric passed away in May 1985. Doreen & Eric had three children, Erica, who passed in 1986, Phillip and Stephen.
What are Doreen’s hobbies?
Doreen loves to read, listen to music, and cook. When she was able to, she also loved to garden and dance. Doreen loves animals too.
Does Doreen still do something now that she did when she was young? Has she carried anything through 100 years?
Reading where possible, she also danced until she was no longer able to. Doreen has much love for all her family, including her grandchildren. Her memory is still strong, and she still has the ability to remember lots from her childhood, including her close relationship with her own mother and father. Doreen has 5 grandsons and a granddaughter. She also has 8 great-grandchildren of whom she is very fond.
Favourite food & favourite band/music?
Doreen loves all foods. She is very fond of cheese-based pasta, all fruit and chocolate. Doreen was an excellent cook but because of her limited mobility, she does tend to struggle to make her own food nowadays.
Doreen likes the swing music genre. She also likes The Beatles, Dr Hook, Hot Chocolate. Her favourite single is ‘when you’re in love with a beautiful woman’ by Dr Hook. She also likes Glenn Miller, the Eagles, and has also followed music from all her children’s era.
What advice would you give to someone in their 20’s?
Always do your best and achieve what you are capable of. Stay within the law and respect your elders too. Be good to yourselves and others. Do not harm animals.
How does it feel to be one of the few to reach 100?
Never in my life did I ever think I would achieve the milestone of 100 years. I am happy to see my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, but sad that I have lost and outlived many good friends and family members over the years.
What is the secret to your longevity and health?
Everything in moderation, and generally look after yourself – also, a little bit of what you fancy does you good.
Most important event/ time of life?
The war years and their survival, meeting my husband at a dance at the Stirchley Institute Dance Hall in Birmingham. The birth of my children and moving to Sale, Greater Manchester in 1951 with my husband’s promotion. It is where we achieved marital independence and made a life for ourselves.
Do you have any regrets?
None at all, I have been incredibly lucky and have had a long and fulfilling life. Had many ups and downs, it has been a roller-coaster but no regrets whatsoever.