Chandler's Ford care home resident celebrates 101st birthday

Joan Cooper has celebrated her 101st birthday. <i>(Image: Brendoncare)</i>
Joan Cooper has celebrated her 101st birthday. (Image: Brendoncare)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A care home resident has celebrated her 101st birthday in style.

Joan Cooper, who has lived at Brendoncare Knightwood in Chandler's Ford since July 2024, marked the occasion surrounded by family and friends.

The care home described her as a "delight" and said she is known for her "warm smile and positive outlook".

Nisha Caussy, wellbeing coordinator at Brendoncare Knightwood, said: "Joan is an absolute delight and a much-loved member of our community.

READ MORE: NSPCC pays tribute to Childline founder Dame Esther Rantzen

Joan Cooper has celebrated her 101st birthday. (Image: Brendoncare)

"Her positivity, kindness and enthusiasm for life inspire everyone around her.

"It has been a privilege to celebrate this remarkable milestone with her, and we are delighted to see her enjoying such a special birthday surrounded by people who care about her."

A former accountant at Underwood & Partners in Chandler's Ford, Ms Cooper spent 15 years in the role and was well known around the town for her love of cycling.

She was affectionately nicknamed the "bike lady".

Reflecting on her long life, Ms Cooper credited her active lifestyle and healthy habits.

She said: "One day a week when I was younger, I worked on the farm with my dad.

"We had a healthy diet and organic food.

"The milk came straight from the cow and the cream was used to make fresh butter.

"At 60 years old, I taught a fitness class for 25 years and looked after my garden.

"My secret would be to always keep active."

Ms Cooper also spoke fondly of her late husband, recalling a cherished moment from their wedding day.

She said: "My fondest memory is when I got married, my husband and I went to a photography shop to have our picture taken and when we came outside there was a crowd of people watching.

READ MORE: Hampshire village crowned the best after entering competition for first time

"Someone shouted, 'Isn't she lovely!' and my husband replied, '...and she's all mine!'

"That always makes me smile."

To celebrate her 101st birthday, the care home arranged a special outing to Winchester Cathedral, where she attended the Wild! flower festival.

She also enjoyed a family meal at a nearby restaurant.

Brendoncare Knightwood is one of seven care homes across the south of England run by Winchester-based charity Brendoncare.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos