Oxford Manor Resident Lucy Celebrates Her Magical 101st Birthday

There was music, laughter, and even a Cinderella carriage at Oxford Manor Care Home this week as much-loved resident Lucy Brown celebrated her 101st birthday in style.

Born on 23rd April 1924 in Cheddar, Somerset, Lucy has lived a life full of adventure, love, and family — and her special day was a true reflection of all those things.

Lucy has been a cherished member of the Oxford Manor community since January 2022, just months after the home first opened. Last year, the team had the pleasure of marking her 100th birthday with a heartfelt performance from the choir at Didcot Girls’ School. This year, the celebrations continued with even more warmth, humour, and joy.

The festivities kicked off the day before her birthday, with a lively visit from a local singer who had everyone’s feet tapping to golden oldies and country classics — Lucy’s favourite. A few of the residents even joined in with impromptu duets, adding to the celebratory spirit.

On her birthday, Lucy spent precious time with her close-knit family, who visit her daily. She is a proud mother of two, grandmother to four, and great-grandmother to seven. Later in the day, Lucy relaxed in the lounge with fellow residents as records from the 1940s played in the background.

Of course, no birthday is complete without a cake — and Lucy’s was as beautiful as it was delicious, made especially by our chef, Ali. After blowing out her candles to a chorus of “Happy Birthday,” she kindly shared the cake with family and residents alike.

To make the day even more magical, staff decorated her wheelchair with a Cinderella-style carriage, a nod to just how special Lucy is to the Oxford Manor family. “We did wonder what would happen at midnight,” activities coordinator, Kate, laughed, “and hoped Lucy would still have both slippers in the morning!”

Lucy’s life story is as remarkable as her birthday celebrations. During World War II, she served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service at Vauxhall Barracks in Didcot, supporting the army with essential supplies — from screws and bolts to tanks. After the war, she settled in the area with her husband Ron, with whom she shared 46 happy years before his passing. She later found love again with Bill, and they were married for more than 20 years.

Lucy also worked as a bookkeeper for Samor Foods, a local canning factory that eventually became part of Heinz, and has travelled the world — from New Zealand and Canada to the USA and even partway up Mount Everest. One of her fondest memories? Walking behind a waterfall on that very trip.

Back at the home, Lucy received lots of birthday cards and thoughtful presents — including several featuring gorillas, her favourite animal. She also enjoyed a cuddle with Rosie the dog, a regular visitor to the home and, like Lucy, a little hard of hearing and sight — making them quite the pair.

Oxford Manor staff describe Lucy as “a joy to be around, full of stories and a cheeky sense of humour.”