COLLINGSWOOD Jen Brandt sought out younger friends. Julia Slimm was helped by good genes. And Phil Sheafer rarely missed a meal.
All three took different routes to cracking the century mark, and on Thursday they were among seven people here to celebrate their longevity at Collingswood Manor.
The retirement community provided a cake for its centenarians, their family members and friends. In turn, the members of the 100-year club shared their pasts and pondered their lifespans.
Honestly, I think I just have good genes, said Slimm, who has lived at the Manor for 15 of her 101 years. She enjoys the bus tours that are provided by the staff, as well as teaching crafts to other residents.
Sheafer, whos 100, was the only man in the group. His advice for a long life: Eat three meals a day.
Brandt, a lively 103, described the 1950s as her favorite decade.
They had a lot of good music, she recalled. Im a music person. I love all kinds.
Brandt, who recently took part in a fashion show at the Manor, had her own strategy for a full life. I always spent time with people younger than I was, she said. Maybe that had something to do with it.
The oldest of the bunch, Mabel Cordier, was born in 1903 in Philadelphia, making her 109 years old. The Haddon Avenue facility also is home to Millie Goodman, 100, and Thelma Chew, 101.
Cathy Anthony from Haddon Heights was at the celebration to honor her grandmother Marion Oldfield, who is to turn 100 in August. She never drank or smoke and was careful with her diet so I think that had a lot to do with it, Anthony said.
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Centenarians celebrate secrets to longevity