One hundred and six cards for 106 years of life.
That was the goal set by Our Lady of the Valley Retirement Community for Venus Tucker, a resident who’s turning 106 years on Aug. 13. Tucker is the oldest resident at the Roanoke, Virginia, community. The facility had to resort to celebrating this way since the pandemic has forced gatherings to a minimum.
The retirement community started with a goal of 106 cards. That was on Aug. 3.
She’s Witnessed 100 Years of History Unfold
Tucker, born on Aug. 13, 1914, has seen over a century’s worth of events unfold. The year of her birth alone was momentous, marking the start of World War I and Babe Ruth’s major league debut.Tucker, from Roanoke, Alabama, explored a variety of careers throughout her life, eventually marrying her husband Wesley, who has since passed away.
“I don’t understand why I have been allowed to reach 106 years old,” Tucker said in a statement, provided by the retirement home.
How the Celebrations Will Unfold
As the company’s oldest resident, Tucker is also an avid reader, particularly interested in the news and current events. Fried chicken is one of her simple pleasures, which will be the main dish served for her birthday.Her celebration will have limited people in attendance, consisting of staff and residents only—and will likely be outside to accommodate social distancing, Holton said.
The cake will be served, and of course, her cards will be presented as part of the “card party.”
“They’re coming in from all over, so it really has been an amazing experience,” Holton said.
She added that by the time Tucker finishes reading all the cards, she'll be 107.
