By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
JEAN Anderson has been enjoying her family for many decades.
A Cranbourne resident of eight years, Jean will mark her century on Sunday 16 April at the Cranbourne RSL.
Her daughter Beth Murphy said she would have her three children, nine grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren by her side to celebrate.
“She never thought she’d make it to 100, she still jokes about it- she can’t believe it,” Beth said.
Having lived on a farm in Warracknabeal for the majority of her married life, Jean said the one thing that got her this far was family.
“You just have to enjoy your family, those who have looked after you,” Jean said.
After a lifetime of playing tennis and piano, sewing and calligraphy, Jean hasn’t lost her creative spark.
“She’s always been artistic, I have some of her poems framed and she still does colouring in,” Beth said.
After moving from their sheep and wheat farm with her husband of 64 years, Duncan, a WWII veteran, Jean recalls one exciting day.
“Going to Government House for a garden party- we were invited for a presentation of a war medal for Duncan,” she said.
Jean has already received recognition from Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnball, and Beth hopes one from the Queen isn’t far away.
“My mum is lovely, she’s witty and still has her dry humour and the letter will be a surprise for her on her special day,” Beth said.
