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Mary Norris, the newest centenarian on the Sunshine Coast, celebrated her 100th birthday on a day filled with surprises.
Mary admitted that the achievement was a little astonishing while surrounded by more than 40 friends and family during her surprise birthday celebration at St Peter’s Anglican Church in Maroochydore.
Though it was just a routine Fellowship Craft Group meeting, Mary said she felt “marvelous” when she arrived to find partygoers mingling, a magnificent high tea, gifts galore, and balloons galore.
Mrs. Norris said, “I never imagined it would be a large celebration; I just assumed it would be our sewing, crocheting, and knitting.”
“I always believed I’d be lucky to reach 60, so it’s a big surprise.
“I never once thought I was young or felt old as I moved around or did anything… I felt the same as I always do.
The Queen of England, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Governor of Queensland Dr. Jeanette Young, and Governor General of Australia David Hurley were among the guests who gave Mary their best wishes.
She said, “That was another surprise. I couldn’t believe it.”
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Mary advised all the “whippersnappers” to follow their passions to maintain good health.
She advised, “Keep doing what you normally do and never say I can’t because once people start saying I can’t, you see people starting to move backward.”
“Because they won’t try to do anything then.
You develop that behavior pattern, go against your usual course, and age earlier than you should.
One of the things Mary takes the most delight in is doing her housework. She also always maintains a lovely garden and lawns, participates in weekly volunteer work, and enjoys knitting, crocheting, and sewing.
She said, “I stay busy and try to help others when possible.
I love it.
Mary was surprised by about 40 family members and friends
Ron and Mary lived in Newcastle and later bought land here after taking numerous vacations there.
But sadly, Ron died in 1978, preventing them from being able to relocate.
Nevertheless, Mary still views meeting him as her most memorable event.
My favorite memory is meeting Ron, she said.
“I was comfortable and happy with him all the time. He was a decent, devoted, and thoughtful man.
Ron was the love of Mary’s life
Nevertheless, Mary built the house she was still living in 1991 because she had family in the region.
Amazingly, she only gave up her driver’s license two years ago, even though she still lives independently in the same house.
She said, “I’m still living alone, and it’s going great.”
“I feel fine still,”
Mary became a vital member of her church’s community and consistently participated for many years, serving morning tea following Wednesday morning services.
She praised the welcoming and loving nature of the church community.
Mary is there every Wednesday night, helping the crew prepare Community Meals in the Church Hall, whether peeling potatoes, washing dishes, or mixing with the neighborhood.
I adore the people, the community, and the connection,” she said.
“I enjoy lending a helping hand, and people are always friendly.
If you can, get out there and engage in social activities like volunteering. If you have the time and energy, help those you believe you can help.
Additionally, Mary has been a crucial component of the Friday morning Fellowship Craft Group that meets at the church.
She had made numerous knitted and crocheted items throughout the years and was consistently the first to assist when required.
It’s wonderful since time might seem lengthy and lonely when you’re by yourself, she added.
However, time passes fast if you enjoy knitting or some minor pastime.
Carolyn Robinson and her mother Mary Norris attended her surprise celebration
Mary, who recalls having an ice chest rather than a freezer, has always been impressed by the advancement of technology.
She noted that the arrival of the refrigerators was a miracle, as well as the ice man’s frequent visits.
She mentioned her father, John Norris, as the piece of advice she would give herself if she were to relive her 21st year.
If you attend a dance, return home by midnight.
Mary was a very kind and giving woman who served as an inspiration to them all, according to Reverend Tania Eichler of St. Peter’s Anglican Church.
