Norwich care home, Hillcrest, formed a guard of honour to mark one of their residents’ 100th birthday in style.
The team at the care home on Thorpe Road lined up in front of colourful balloons outside the home as resident Ruby Baker began a day of double celebrations.
As well as marking her centenary, the occasion also involved Ruby’s first trip out of the home with her family since lockdown.
Following the latest government guidance, the team at the home helped to plan a special trip out for Ruby. This meant she could spend time with close family at a small tea party. On her way out of the home, Ruby was greeted by the guard of honour and a chorus of Stevie Wonder’s ‘Happy Birthday to Ya’.
Ruby has led an exciting life and was lucky enough to be married to her beloved husband Chris for more than 60 years. They lived together at Hillcrest care home for many years until he sadly passed in 2013, on Ruby’s birthday.
She and Chris share four children, son Stephen and daughters Susan, Elizabeth and Julie. Her wider family includes four granddaughters and eight grandsons.
Ruby was a talented tailor for many years. She also worked in a boat factory, clothing factory and as a cleaner.
Ruby said: “I had a wonderful time celebrating my birthday with my family. It was so lovely to be greeted by the staff forming a guard of honour as I left.
“My secret to a long and healthy life is self-discipline, self-will, determination and faith in myself!”
Amy Parker, home manager of the Norwich-based care home, said: “Ruby has a great personality and is very kind to others. She is known as the ‘Queen of Hillcrest’! Ruby will always join in with any activity and will never let her age get in the way.
“We are delighted to have been able to celebrate such a special day with Ruby. We look forward to celebrating future birthdays with her here at Hillcrest care home.”
