Denham resident shares life lesson on 100th birthday

The eventful life of Mary Langham has taken her on a journey from West Sussex to Denham in Buckinghamshire.

The greatest thing she has learned in life is love is all that matters, the 100-year-old birthday hero said.  

However, she remained casual about the significant milestone.

Mary said: “I don’t give it as much thought as everyone else! I just thank God for all the love and everyday.”

Mary pictured on her 100th birthday on January 17 (Image: Wendy Jefferies)

The now resident of White Plains care home in Denham was born in Haywards Heath on January 17 1923 as the adored only child.

During the Second World War, Mary worked as a clerk at Somerset House in London.

Later, Mary went on to find the love of her life Fred Langham, whom she married and settled with in Ickenham, Middlesex. Fred was 17 years her senior and he lived to 100 years.

With Fred, to whom she referred to as “darling”, Mary went on holidays, shared a passion for horticulture, love of plant propagation, and growing dahlias to exhibit them.

Mary and Fred met each other in mid-life (Image: Mary Langham)

During her time as the church warden at St Mary’s Church in her home village of Hanwell near Haywards Heath and Ickenham Mary became an important and popular member of the community and the church.

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The community star first came to White Plains care home for a holiday respite, where she made friends thanks to her sociable nature, before moving there permanently at the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

White Plains engagement lead Wendy Jefferies said: “Mary continues to add sparkle around the home every day, joining in all the fun engaging activities especially the hand jive.”