Evelyn Ward celebrates 102
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| Ward family matriarch Evelyn Ward holds her youngest great-granddaughter, Joyanna, while Mom Kristina Cleve and grandpa Joe Ward look on. |
Her son, Joe Ward, oldest granddaughter Kristina Cleve and youngest great-granddaughter Joyanna, all of Bonners Ferry, flew to Charlotte for the short trip to Evelyn's home in the Gaston Place senior living center, Gastonia, North Carolina, where they were joined by Evelyn's daughter Cece Ward, also of Gastonia, and several other grandchildren and great grandchildren, most of them from Colorado.
Evelyn had a big party Monday evening with her family and friends. The staff at Gaston Place made a big sign to mark the occasion, everyone sang "Happy Birthday," and there were cards, cup cakes, cake and ice cream and good wishes all day.
According to Joe, Mom looked a little tired by the end of the day, but happy.
"We are all so amazed at how outgoing and lively she still is at 102," he said. "She says she thinks she can live on cake, ice cream and lots of love! My daughter and granddaughter flew with me to celebrate. It was a big thrill for Mom and Kristina to see each other for the first time in nine years, and what a joy for all of us for Mom to hold her six month old great-granddaughter, Joyanna, for the first time!"
"Happy birthday to the coolest lady I know!" said her 23 year-old great-granddaughter, Katrina, having traveled from Colorado Springs, Colorado, for the celebration. "102 and still awesome as ever!"
Her granddaughter, Kim Shields, Colorado, and great-grandchildren Elissa, Isaac, Evan, Shane, Zach, and Josh Cleve, all of Bonners Ferry, sent their love and best wishes.