Gwen Hutchinson’s 106th birthday party. PHOTO PROVIDED
On June 29, Lehigh Acres Place residents, friends, family, and co-workers helped bring a smile and a little joy to Gwen Hutchinson, who was celebrating her 106th birthday.
The event was held at the assisted living facility and began with live entertainment, a Jamaican-style feast, birthday cake, and a visit from Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson.
Hutchinson also had a special surprise when family members from different parts of Florida came to help her celebrate the momentous occasion.
“She had a great time today with her family and friends. This is the sixth year I’ve come to celebrate her birthday. My aunt is a very outgoing person and enjoys working with the other residents, doing activities and even playing the piano. Always full of life. She actually lived alone until she was 103 years old. “ That’s what Hutchinson’s niece, Yvette Maitland-Vargas, said.
After lunch, the guests sang Hutchinson with a Happy Birthday song and enjoyed a piece of cake with fellow residents at a table decorated with balloons and flowers. Mayor Anderson handed her one too “Certificate of Celebration” from the city of Fort Myers.
The celebration and warm wishes meant a lot to Hutchinson, who is always zealous for life and gets involved with other residents in the community. She has a long history of giving to others and was a nurse at Mount Sinai Hospital for over 15 years. Even after retirement, she worked in a social center and looked after children.
“My birthday was wonderful. I am 106! I still feel fine My secret to long life is my complete trust in the Lord. I trust him at all times and still like to eat my 10 pieces of bacon every day. “ said Hutchinson.
This is not the first time residents and the community have wished Gwen a happy birthday. When Hutchinson celebrated her 105th birthday last year, she was greeted by a parade of vehicles, fire engines, and police vehicles lined up outside the Lehigh Acres Place Assisted Living Facility. The Lehigh Acres Fire District fire engines turned on their sirens and displayed signs to help Hutchinson and his roommates celebrate this momentous event.
Two Lee County Commissioners, Cecil Pendergrass and Frank Mann, attended her birthday party on Hutchinson’s 104th birthday. Each commissioner surprised them with their own special gift. Commissioner Pendergrass brought and read out a solemn resolution recognizing her on this special day, and Commissioner Frank Mann serenaded her with a song entitled “Let me call you honey”which put a smile on her face.
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