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Her day is far from done

Posted on February 3, 2011February 3, 2011 by Staff

Photo by Allison Russell

By Will Bryant
Staff Writer
When Anne Edwin was born on Jan. 28, 1911, William Taft was president of the United States, the town of Carrboro was little more than a textile mill and some railroad tracks and the Titanic was one year away from embarking on its fateful journey.
Edwin, who celebrated a century of life at a birthday party in the community room of Adelaide Walters Apartments last Friday, is considered past her prime by most people’s standards. But as her fellow residents will tell you, at 100 years old, Edwin might be the youngest person living in Chapel Hill.
“Anne has got a youthful attitude … it’s like everything is fresh and new,” said 88-year-old Don Matthias, Edwin’s neighbor of nearly 10 years. “She looks at the best side of things – and for a person of 100 years, that’s unusual.”
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Edwin was the only girl among four brothers. At 16, she was forced to get a job to help her struggling single mother. Her work helped her family weather the Great Depression.
Later, she lived nearly 30 years in Florida with her husband, Russ Edwin. They had no kids.
“They were party people,” said Edwin’s niece, Patricia Watts. “They loved to have fun.”
Russ passed away in 1985, but Anne has managed to get along on her own. Watts says that when she takes Edwin to the local Harris Teeter, her aunt knows exactly what she wants.
“She pushes her own cart, picks out her own fruits and vegetables, and talks to the meat man. She pretty much takes care of herself.”
Edwin has seen some tough times in her 100 years, but she says she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“Some days I don’t feel very well, but who else cares,” she asks. “Other people are not interested in your troubles, so I always just say I am fine and keep a smile on my face.”
Edwin claims she never imagined she would live to be 100, and still can’t believe it. She attributes her longevity to the positive attitude she carries with her in life and the respectful attitude she has toward others.
“You should always try to understand other people, instead of criticizing them,” she says. “Just be honest and truthful.”
Edwin moved to Chapel Hill in the winter of 2002, and since then has become a beloved member of the community. Known throughout the Adelaide complex for her glowing smile and calming voice, she’s a role model for those around her.
“She is an inspiration to all of us,” says Matthias. “Anne is beloved by everyone here.”
Matthias was one of many celebrating Edwin’s birthday milestone on Friday, and he serenaded the birthday girl with the old-time favorite “Day is Done.”
The song capped a special afternoon for the residents of Adelaide Apartments. Because, despite what the title of the tune may have you believe, the spry and ever-smiling Anne Edwin is still loving life, and her day is far from done.

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