Community members across Guthrie, OK, stopped for a moment last week to celebrate the birthday of the state’s oldest resident on record.
Ethel Bowens — born Aug. 26, 1909 — celebrated her 112th birthday on Wednesday.
The Golden Age Nursing Home resident’s birthday celebration last year looked a little different due to the COVID-19 pandemic and visitation restrictions for nursing homes. At that time, family members and friends were forced to sing “Happy Birthday” from outside her window at the facility and delivered her gifts and treats to abide by social distancing guidelines.
This year, with relaxed restrictions, the Guthrie community made sure to throw her a party like no other. Area residents held a parade to celebrate Bowen’s birthday on Saturday. The celebration featured a performance from the Guthrie High School marching band and cheerleaders.
Bowens was also presented with flowers, a card and a proclamation by local and state officials.
Bowens, to date, has a total of 136 grandchildren, which includes 29 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, and 52 great, great-grandchildren, according to Golden Age.
Bowens, following the celebration, said the key to a long life was “having one man, no smoking or drinking, having children later in life, and having faith in God.”
She added, “I’m made out of good stuff!”
We wish her many more birthday celebrations to come.
