Longtime local resident shares secrets of turning 100
Published on August 20th, 2003
"STONEHAM, MA - When Stoneham resident Gladys Kenney hears idle talk about the internet, the bowlingual translating machines that are purported to translate your dog's barks and whimpers into conversational english, or any number of clever little devices that are supposed to make life easier, entertaining or more convenient, she just shakes her head and laughs.
Kenney can probably afford such bemused merriment because she remembers a time when much of the modern day world seemed impossible. Kenney celebrated her centennial on June 27 at her sons home, and also quietly celebrated the birthday at her home, the Fuller House at 32 Franklin Street.
"Gladys is such a wonderful person to have around the Fuller House," said Fuller House Administrator Cindy Rineer. "She was on the Board of Directors for years before she ever lived here, and she really is a breath of fresh air around here. She's still so active that sometimes we have to tell her to slow down a bit."
Kenney was downright playful when asked what it felt like to be 100-years old
"I don't feel any different than I did at 90," joked Kenney. "I'm very grateful that I'm still on my feet."
Kenney has lived in Stoneham for 70 years, and spent most of her time as a resident of Everett Street in the southside of town.
Kenney eventually moved to a condo on Franklin Street, and has lived the last three years at the Fuller House.
"The one thing I've noticed about Stoneham recently is all the building going on," said Kenney. "That and the little police box isn't in the square."
"Everything is so different now, it's hard to pinpoint one thing," added Kenney. "The schools are certainly much better."
Kenney attributes years of activity and exercise for her remarkable longevity, and thinks anybody that wants to live a long, happy life should "just keep moving."
Kenney was a registered nurse at Winchester Hospital for 12 years, and raised three children in Stoneham: Charles R. Kenney of Hampton, Virginia, Patricia Huntington and James W. Kenney of Marblehead.
"Just keep busy and exercise," said a smiling Kenney. "I used to walk all over town, and over at Lake Quannapowwitt in Wakefield."
Kenney seemed to be genuinely embarrassed by all the fuss brought on by her hundredth birthday, but she couldn't wait "to see her picture in the paper."
Kenney spent her actual birthday at her son's home in Marblehead, and had a nice party.
"It's a very nice home right by the ocean," said Kenney.
The Fuller House "offers a relaxed family style of retirement living, and has been a charitable non-profit retirement home in operation at its current location since 1930.
According to information provided by the Fuller House, the home was originally known as "The Home for Aged People in Stoneham" and was incorporated in 1898 by a group of concerned citizens and church people.
The Fuller House was recently renovated and offers a homey atmosphere for its 12 residents.
According to a brochure provided by the Fuller House, "the home is ideal for senior citizens who no longer feel secure living alone, who love home cooking and enjoy planned activities while making new friends."
Kenney seemed to agree that the Fuller House was exactly where she wanted to be.
"I think it's wonderful," said Kenney. "I've been watching this place for seven years, and I made up my mind a long time ago that I wanted to live here."
"It seemed like a very nice place to be when I used to visit," added Kenney. "And I'm very happy here."
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