Marking A Century Of Life

Surrounded by her family and new friends made at Waterville Residential Care Center, Myrt Furness celebrated her 100th birthday.

Furness turned 100 Aug. 19. A resident of the area her whole life, Furness moved to the WRCC this year when living alone became difficult.

She and her first husband, Joe Sanderson, moved to Stockwell when he returned from World War II.

The couple raised their five children—sons Joe and Jimmy and daughters Nancy, Sandy and Linda—there until they moved to Sangerfield in 1960.

Joe passed away in 1963, leaving Myrt, known by many as Nanny, as a single mom with kids in their teens.

A few years later she married Bill Furness.

The couple enjoyed traveling the country up until Bill’s death six years ago.

Myrt worked at the A&P Grocery store in Waterville and at the Waterville Knitting Mill.

She was active in the community in a number of areas.

Along with her four surviving children—son Jimmy died in 1983—Myrt's family line includes nine grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

The party at the nursing home followed a 1950s theme in dress and music, and included cake and refreshments.