Bristol woman celebrates 100th birthday surrounded by loved ones
BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) — A woman living in Bristol, Virginia named Vera Tagert celebrated her 100th birthday this week surrounded by friends and family.
Tagert became a centenarian on Monday and celebrated with loved ones at her senior living community, Brookdale Bristol. She told News Channel 11 that she feels blessed to have made it this far and to have so many people in her life who care about her.
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“It’s wonderful to have so many of my family here visiting too; well, I don’t see them very often,” she said. “And it was a big surprise to me. I didn’t know what was being prepared. My son and his wife did the whole thing.”
(WJHL)
Tagert was born in Meeker, Colorado, and graduated high school at age 16, according to Brookdale staff. She was one of twelve siblings raised on a ranch and even rode a horse to school sometimes.
Tagert went on to work for the National Parks Service for a total of 40 years and eventually came to call the Tri-Cities her home. She said she now enjoys having her little community at Brookdale in Bristol.
“It’s like one great big family, and we all have our little problems and share them. And that’s the wonderful thing about having people that care about you.”
Residents and family members sang Happy Birthday to Tagert, then served up some red velvet cake and ice cream. She told News Channel 11 her key to living a fulfilled 100 years:
“Just have a good attitude, and reach out and enjoy life as you go along.”
“I don’t know how I got here to 100 years, but I feel very blessed. God’s been good to me.”
Staff at Brookdale Bristol said Vera enjoys exercise classes and trivia games.
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