Gladys Ludens, Morrison, IL, awoke this morning, Friday, April 11, 2014, to begin her 107th year. She fixed breakfast in her home. Likely she would make time during the day to continue her rigorous online study of the U. S. Constitution, as a way to keep her mind sharp as a tack. It is.
Well-wisher Carole Patton chatted with Gladys about being mentored by her in Eastern Star, years ago; Gladys remembered that in detail. She told the Editor, a few years ago an old friend–a little younger than her–from Campbell [country] School in Geddes, SD, sent her a letter asking, “Do you remember me?” Gladys replied, “How could I forget her?”
When her physician suggested she give up driving, Gladys agreed. However, she took the Illinois Driver’s Exam at age 101–and passed–just to prove to herself that she was qualified.
On Thursday, April 10, Ludens was feted at First Presbyterian Church’s bi-monthly free Community Meal. On the second and fourth Thursday of the month, these gatherings are held in the fellowship hall at 100 E. Lincolnway, Morrison, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. On this evening the hall was nearly full of well wishers.
“I wish we could have this every Thursday,” commented a parishoner.
Gladys wore the whimsical party hat and a constant smile, just as she had last year. She enjoyed supper, chatted with her tablemates, and graciously accepted good wishes, cards, hugs, and a few kisses from those in attendance. She looks remarkable! Patton’s daughter-in-law requested she ask Gladys what she eats, so she can nurture her children the same way, to a long and healthy life.
The photo below shows the Editor with the honoree at the 2013 celebration. Vavra is holdiing a photo of Gladys and herself at a private 103rd birthday anniversary luncheon in 2010, held in Sterling, IL. Gladys’s smiling face adorns Vavra’s refrigerator. It is a daily happy reminder of this local treasure.
