Villa Maria Fortitude Valley resident, Ruby, celebrated her 107th birthday on 4 July. Ruby had a great time with other residents and Villa Maria staff, it was a fantastic day and an amazing birthday party. Ruby is pictured above with Beth Kitoli, Residential Manager.
Ruby has lived quite a life. Always a go-getter, Ruby cruised the streets on the back of a Harley Davidson at the tender age of 90, went hot air ballooning in her late 90s and enjoyed receiving her letter from the Queen when she turned 100.
Ruby was born in 1913 at Goodna in Queensland. At the age of 28 she married Tom and they had three children, Toni, Peter and Michael. The family made the move to Longreach in 1945 where Tom concentrated on his work as a sheep and cattle buyer. Tragically Tom passed away from meningitis in 1951 leaving Ruby with three young children.
Ruby decided to move back to Brisbane and went to work for the Queensland Railways, later buying a house in Paddington, Brisbane. Ruby worked hard for many years, supporting her children and giving them the best start in life.
Ruby was a prolific letter writer in her younger days. Politicians, business leaders and councils were all privy to her thoughtful and direct correspondence. In Ruby’s mind, letter-writing to the leaders was a task of utmost importance.
These days, Ruby’s children are all settled with families however none are living close to Villa Maria. Unfortunately, due to Covid they could not come visit their Mum this birthday. Ruby also has six grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Without their visits, it was important for Villa Maria staff to make Ruby’s birthday extra special.
For Ruby, turning 107 is just another milestone to tick off and take in her stride. From all of us Ruby, congratulations!
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