More than 40 county residents – all of whom have witnessed a remarkable century of change – were honored at the Tuolumne County Commission on Aging’s annual Centenarian Society event.

“Look at how our little society has grown,” said event emcee Cathie Peacock, looking over a sea of elders enjoying celebratory camaraderie and a special lunch at the Tuolumne County Senior Center in Sonora.

Stars of the day were newly recognized centenarians, deemed by the commission as graduates of the “University of Life.” Also honored with certificates and warm applause were those in their mid-90s, ranked as freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors.

What do those who have lived for 100 years or more value most? Friends and Neighbors asked some of the honorees for their thoughts:

Frances Bartels, 105, born in 1906

“My daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. And just the fact that I’m alive –getting up in the morning, doing my knitting and my cooking. Every day I just tell my feet to start moving and hope to keep going.”

Virginia Bowers, 100, born in 1911

“My daughter Sue, and my granddaughter Cathy, who comes to see me every day, sometimes twice a day. I can’t hear, can’t see and I can’t get around very well. I guess I guess I thrive on challenge! I value my friends and family, and trying to be helpful to whoever may need help.”

Marian McMullen, 102, born in 1909

“Just being able to be here. I enjoy whatever’s going on. I like good music, and being me – I’m a pretty happy person. The secret? Just accepting life as it comes, I guess.”

Mickey Nichols, 100, born in 1911

“My son, stepdaughter and foster daughters. I value the love given to me in my life from people I’ve cared for and helped. I enjoy each day and I stay busy. I’ve always done what my husband, gone 26 years now, told me: You use it or you lose it. So I make sure that I walk and keep active so I can stay mobile.”

Esther Butler, 102, born in 1909

“I just enjoy whatever we’re doing. I love people, and boy, do I know people. Even as a child, I always knew the good from the bad. I had wonderful parents, loved my work in banking – I loved my life. My advice: Have fun, live it up.”

  © 2011 Friends and Neighbors Magazine