SOUTHWICK – A Southwick resident celebrated quite the milestone on Thursday afternoon. Mary Milligan, a frequent visitor of the Southwick Senior Center, celebrated her 100th birthday at the senior center on Thursday.
Walking into the dining area of the senior center in total surprise that a birthday party was being held for her, Milligan was also shocked to see a large group of friends and family that traveled far distances in order to share the special day.
“I can’t believe this,” said Milligan. “It’s nice to have beautiful friends and family and to think that I’m here to enjoy it.”
Mary Milligan, a Southwick resident, celebrated her 100th birthday on Thursday at the Southwick Council on Aging. (Photo by Greg Fitzpatrick)
A waitress until she was 75-years-old, noting she worked at the Lido Restaurant in Springfield, Milligan has continued to enjoy life after all her years of hard work.
“That’s why I figure I’m in good shape,” Milligan laughed.
Cindy Sullivan, Southwick Council on Aging Director, said that she usually only organizes quarterly birthday parties at the senior center, but this one was too special to wait.
“How many times do you get to do this?” said Sullivan.
Sullivan is also very impressed by the great health that Milligan has at 100-years-old.
“If I live to 100-years-old, I want to look like Mary (Milligan),” said Sullivan. “She’s amazing.”
To start the celebration, lunch was served to Milligan and her friends and family. After lunch, Milligan did the honor of cutting her birthday cake. Sullivan addressed the room to say some words about Milligan, followed by a representative of Sen. Don Humason’s office.
