Reading residents, family members, and local officials gathered to celebrate Shirley Marks’ 100th birthday and a century defined by dedication, laughter, and an enduring love for family
Reading, MA — Peter Sanborn residents, staff, and family recently came together to celebrate a remarkable milestone as Shirley turned 100 years old, marking a century filled with family, hard work, laughter, and an enduring zest for life. In addition to family who traveled in from multiple states, also joining the celebration were Massachusetts State House Representative Richard Haggerty, who presented Shirley with an official citation honoring this extraordinary achievement, and Town of Reading Select Board Members Christopher Haley and Melissa Murphy.
Born in 1926 in her family home in Everett, Massachusetts, Shirley grew up as the oldest of nine children. Today, she is the last surviving sibling, a role she carries with deep pride and reflection. Her early years laid the foundation for a life defined by resilience and dedication.
Shirley graduated from Melrose High School in 1944, stepping into adulthood during a time of global change. Soon after, she married and began raising a family of her own, eventually becoming a devoted mother to five children. Alongside her responsibilities at home, she built a career as a medical secretary at a busy medical office, balancing the demands of work and family with determination and care.
After retiring, Shirley embraced a new chapter, spending more than two decades living in Florida and Virginia. In 2019, she returned to Massachusetts, reconnecting with the place where her journey first began.
Known for her warm personality, Shirley never misses an opportunity to enjoy a good laugh. She is right at home with her dedicated homecare worker, Lisa, who helps keep her motivated, engaged, and ready to take on each day. Shirley also speaks with her children/grandchildren daily, keeping them up to speed on her day-to-day activities and staying closely connected with her family. During quieter moments, Shirley enjoys scrolling through her Facebook account, keeping up with loved ones and the world around her.
When asked about the secret to her long and healthy life, Shirley keeps it simple: keep moving and never stop trying something new. She continues to live by that philosophy today. Just weeks ago, following her regular hair appointment, she joined fellow residents in the Community Room for an energetic cardio drumming class, proof that her vibrant spirit remains as strong as ever.
Despite a lifetime of accomplishments, Shirley says her greatest joy has always been her loving family, which now spans generations and continues to grow.
As she celebrates her 100th birthday, Shirley stands as an inspiration to all who know her as a testament to the power of staying active, embracing change, sharing laughter, and cherishing the people who matter most.
