The Manchester Maine Historical Society recently recognized the town’s oldest citizen, 100-year-old Geraldine “Gerry” Roley.
She was born Oct. 24, 1923.
A walking stick made by John Black of Manchester was presented to Roley as a symbolic representation of Manchester’s Boston Cane. A certificate and a copy of the Manchester History Book also were presented to her, according to a news release from Diana Worthing with the society.
Roley’s family all joined in celebrating her 100th birthday, arriving from many different states. She grew up in Augusta and attended Augusta schools. She worked for Maine’s Department of Health & Welfare but found her calling working in a bookstore.
She and her husband raised their twin boys in Augusta. Roley’s husband’s job required a lot of traveling, and after their children were older, she joined him in traveling for his work. She later settled in Manchester.
An avid golfer, she continued golfing until the age of 98.
Manchester’s Boston Cane is on permanent display at the Manchester Grange No. 174.
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