It’s not every day that a card from Her Majesty, The Queen, is delivered to one’s home, but for Vera Brown of Risinghurst, Oxford, this happened recently on her 100th birthday. Born in Oxford, 100 years ago, Vera has lived a full and active life. She had many jobs during her working life, including serving as a nurse during the Second World War. She retired from work at the age of 65.
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Vera joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints more than 25 years ago and her favourite role in the church, was serving as the pianist in the children’s organisation, which is called Primary. Working with those children is one of her fondest memories, and it was a role that she really enjoyed.
To help celebrate Vera’s really special birthday, members of the Church in the Oxford area threw a party for her, and she was thrilled that over 70 people came along to join in the celebrations, some travelling great distances to be with her that day. Bishop Philip Toothill, leader of the local congregation said, “Vera is a tremendous example to everyone who comes into contact with her, she is loved and appreciated by so many people.”
Asked what advice she would give to people who wanted to live a long and healthy life, Vera said, “This is a difficult question to answer, but people should keep walking.”
Elder Patrick Kearon, a senior leader in the church (Europe Area President) sent her a lovely letter wishing her well, and she was really pleased to receive this, together with all of the other birthday wishes.