Uttoxeter resident reaches 100 milestone

By timesecholife on in All News, Community News

A RESIDENT from East Staffordshire celebrated her 100th birthday on Friday as five generations of family came together to mark the occasion. Emily Rawlinson, who lives at Hermitage Residential Home in Uttoxeter, had a relaxing day with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and also had a special visit from the Uttoxeter Town Mayor Sue McGarry, in the afternoon. Born in Stone, Emily spent most of her life in Birmingham where she worked her way up to becoming the manager of an adult training centre for mentally and physically handicapped people before retiring aged 65.

The 100-year-old had the privilege of meeting the Queen during her time there when Her Majesty opened a new centre for the company 54 years ago.

When she was 22-years-old, Emily married husband John who went on to heroically fight in India and Russia during the Second World War.

John sadly passed away 40 years ago.

Emily gave birth to four children, three of which spoke to the Times and Echo; Peter, Joan and Philip. Mrs Rawlinson’s youngest daughter died a few years ago aged 68.

Emily now has seven grandchildren and “many” great-grandchildren.

Her children spoke of the many funny stories that had happened during Emily’s lifetime, including how she passed her driving test at the age of 57 and drove like “she was a kid-racer.”

Explaining how they came from humble beginnings, they reiterated how she taught them important life lessons.

Joan said: “She instilled upon us qualities of life; that you should never take things for granted and you should always treat people with respect.

“We’re very proud of Mum.

“It’s been a fantastic day; The Hermitage (Residential Home) has gone the extra mile to ensure she has had a lovely day.”

Uttoxeter Town Mayor Sue McGarry told the Times and Echo: “It’s wonderful to have somebody that is 100 years old in the community.

“It’s been absolutely lovely to see five generations of family all come from different walks of life and that are all dotted all over the country have come back to Uttoxeter to celebrate her birthday.”

Hermitage Residential Home would like to offer their thanks to Heidi’s Kitchen of Uttoxeter who provided Emily’s birthday cake at short notice in time for the big day.

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