Joan Simpson marked her 106th birthday at Elizabeth Lodge, joined by loved ones and Enfield’s Mayor.
The head chef baked a special cake for Joan, and they decorated the lounge in her honor. Joan was born in Southwark in 1919.
The First World War ended shortly before her birth, and she worked as a secretary when she was younger. Joan met her husband, William, at a dance club. They wed in 1947 and had a daughter named Jillian. Jillian gave them two grandkids and four great-grandchildren.
Joan and William ran a funeral parlor, with their home above their business. Joan remembers funny moments after her daughter’s dates, recalling that no one wanted coffee at that location.
Joan stayed very active throughout her life. She enjoyed doing tai chi at her home and liked theatre performances. Joan traveled when she was younger.
Someone asked Joan her secret to a happy, long life. She initially joked about keeping it a secret, then shared some wisdom. Joan said working hard helped, and that also staying active mattered. Caring for others and having family was very important to her as well.