Community members across Guthrie, OK, stopped for a moment in late August to celebrate the birthday of the state’s oldest resident on record.
Ethel Bowens — born Aug. 26, 1909 — celebrated her 112th birthday. The Golden Age Nursing Home resident’s birthday observance last year looked much different due to 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 under 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 Bowens’ birthday amid a celebration that featured a performance from the Guthrie High School marching band and cheerleaders. She also was presented with flowers, a card and proclamations 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. She 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.”
“I’m made out of good stuff,” she added.
From the October 2021 Issue of McKnight's Long-Term Care News
