This Sunday, the charming town of Willits in northern California will come together to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 116th birthday of Edith “Edie” Recagno Keenan Ceccarelli, America’s oldest living person. Edie’s life is a testament to her strength, resilience, and elegance, inspiring countless people in her community and beyond.
As the second-oldest person on Earth, according to the Gerontology Research Group, Edie’s life has been a journey of hard work, dedication, and joy. Born in Willits in 1908, Edie grew up in a family of immigrants from Italy, learning the value of physical labor and perseverance from a young age. She spent her life working, raising a family, and contributing to her community, always with a sense of style and flair.
Edie’s birthday celebration has become an annual tradition in Willits, with the town coming together to honor her remarkable life. This year’s festivities will include a grand parade, featuring city employees, local organizations, and community members, all united in their admiration for Edie. As the parade winds through the town, Edie will be treated to a spectacle of music, color, and joy, a fitting tribute to her extraordinary life.
For Edie, this birthday celebration is a time to indulge in her favorite treats, including carrot cake and strawberry ice cream, and to bask in the love and admiration of her community. As she looks back on her life, Edie’s story is one of inspiration, a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a sense of style, anything is possible.
Join the people of Willits this Sunday as they celebrate Edie’s remarkable journey and honor her as a true American treasure. The parade will take place rain or shine, a testament to the community’s spirit and dedication to celebrating Edie’s extraordinary life.
