Prince George Duke of Kent Court resident celebrates 100th birthday

A resident at Prince George Duke of Kent Court in Chislehurst, has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Joan Mailing enjoyed a tea dance at the Home with her fellow residents. Staff were determined to ensure that she had a memorable birthday, in spite of the pandemic.

She was surprised and delighted to receive an official birthday card from Her Majesty the Queen, joking with carers:

“it’s amazing, I thought I was only going to be 30!”

Joan was born in Woolwich, South London, on 20 June 1920, just a year after the end of the First World War.

She worked as a hairdresser from the age of around 16, which she loved, and eventually she bought her own salon.

Joan married and had two children. She now has two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Staff at the Home describe Joan as a “breath of fresh air”, who continues to enjoy her favourite tipple, a Whiskey Mack, from the Home’s bar, and dances from room to room, rather than walking.

When asked:

“What might we be surprised to learn about you?” Joan quipped: “that I survived through a war, because I don’t look old enough.”

What advice would she give younger generations?

“I would tell them to behave themselves, to go to school and learn new things.”

And her secret to having a long and happy life? Joan said:

“The secret to long life is keeping active and healthy.”

Valerie Allen, Activities Coordinator at Prince George Duke of Kent Court, said:

“Joan had a lovely birthday. Her attitude to life is so positive, she really is a breath of fresh air and she is much loved at our Home. She received some beautiful flowers and lots of presents and cards from her family and friends.”