Friends, family, and town officials honor Reading’s longtime community leader, business owner, and public servant on his milestone birthday
Reading, MA — Friends, family, fellow residents, and town officials gathered recently at The Residence at Pearl Street to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 100th birthday of longtime Reading resident Ron Winslow.
The celebration was held in a place deeply meaningful to Winslow. He currently resides at The Residence at Pearl Street, which occupies the former Pearl Street Elementary School — a building he once oversaw during his tenure as Reading’s Assistant Superintendent for Business from 1973 to 1989.
More Photos by Kenan Cooper
Winslow was surrounded by loved ones, his bandmates, and members of the residence’s chorus group, of which he is an active participant. Together, they marked the occasion by singing “Happy Birthday” in his honor.
Adding to the significance of the celebration, Town Manager Matt Kraunelis, Assistant Town Manager Jayne Wellman, and Reading Veterans Officer Wil Valliere presented Winslow with a certificate from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, recognizing his century of life and contributions to the community.
From the 1950s through the mid-1970s, Winslow owned and operated Winslow’s store on Haven Street, a well-known variety store located across from the depot. The shop featured a lunch counter, soda fountain, and ice cream parlor, and served as a neighborhood hub for generations of residents. Customers relied on Winslow’s for everything from newspapers, donuts, and milk to greeting cards, train tickets, and soda-fountain sundaes.
Winslow’s public service extended well beyond his business and professional career. In 1960, he was elected to a three-year term on the Reading Board of Selectmen, later served on the Finance Committee, and dedicated 30 years as a Town Meeting Member.
Photos from the celebration capture a joyful tribute to a century of community involvement, service, and connection — reflecting the lasting impact Ron Winslow has had on the Town of Reading.
