Spring Layout 2005.qxd - Magnolia Manor

100 is
Over the course of 100 years, life brings a lot
of changes – some good and some bad. Yet
for Magnolia Manor of St. Simons resident
Nell Suratt, who celebrated her 100 th birthday
on January 30, the things in her life that have
the most meaning, have remained the same. A
strong family unit, a positive
attitude and compassion
towards others are
what she has built her
long life on. And, at 100,
she continues to enjoy life
as much as she did half a
century ago.
“I don’t feel any different
since turning 100,”
commented Suratt. “It’s
like it hasn’t really dawned
on me yet.”
Born in Brewton,
Georgia, a neighboring
town of Dublin, Suratt
grew up with five brothers and two sisters.
Before settling down with her former husband,
Barnett, she was a registered nurse. Once married,
she and her husband had two sons,
Barnett and Richard - both of who visited
from Florida to spend the birthday weekend
with their mother at her retirement home of
six years.
“This is a real milestone for our family,”
commented Barnett on his mother turning 100.
“We have all looked forward to this day.”
Along with Suratt’s sons, family from as far
away as California converged at Magnolia
Manor of St. Simons to celebrate the momentous
occasion.
4 Magnolia Manor
only a number
“We are delighted to
celebrate Mrs. Nell’s
100 th birthday with
her and her family,”
said Tom Cronemeyer,
administrator of
Magnolia Manor of
St. Simons as he welcomed
the group to
the party hosted by the Manor. “You are a special
person and we are glad to have you here.”
In addition to “congratulations” by Magnolia
Manor’s staff and residents, local dignitaries
wished Suratt a wonderful 100 th birthday.
Brunswick Mayor Brad Brown attended the
afternoon gala to read
the Mayor’s Proclamation
while President
and Mrs. Bush sent a
letter of warm wishes.
Before enjoying a
large sheet cake prepared
by a local Island
bakery, the group sang
“Happy Birthday” to
Suratt as she blew out
three candles numbered
1-0-0.
As proud as Suratt
Nell Suratt’s younger son, Richard, gives her a birthday kiss was to be surrounded
before she makes a wish and blows out the candles. by family and friends at
the celebration, there was one person who was
missed. Suratt’s twin sister, Evelyn, who lived
in the Nursing Center, passed away on their
95 th birthday. “We planned to reach 100
together,” said Suratt, “so this is somewhat bittersweet.
This occasion would be even more
special if she were here to celebrate with me.”
With Evelyn in her thoughts, Suratt enjoyed a
memorable 100 th celebration with loved ones
and her Magnolia Manor of St. Simons’ family.
Along with staying in close contact with
family members, she enjoys singing, attending
monthly campus parties and activities, and
Sunday Vesper services. MM