The Meadows at Lawrence Resident Elsie Speranza Marks 100th Birthday with Party and Mayoral Proclamation

“Be kind to everyone” are the words of wisdom that Elsie Speranza, a Lawrence Twp. resident who recently turned 100, lives by and embodies every day. The centenarian, who lives at The Meadows at Lawrence, was honored with a celebration surrounded by family, friends and The Meadows’ staff.

Born on June 7, 1926, Speranza is one of 13 children and grew up in Central Falls, R.I. She met her husband, Richard, a navy veteran who served in WWII, in Newport, and they were married for 65 years. The couple resided in Whiting, N.J., for many years. With two sons, four grandchildren and six great grandchildren, Speranza credits her family as her crowning achievement and says that “being a great mother” is her biggest honor.

To celebrate her milestone, Lawrence Twp. Mayor Christopher Bobbitt created a special proclamation for Speranza. Debbie Conroy, Lawrence’s campus director of life enrichment, had the honor of presenting it to her at the festivities. The Meadows’ team also gifted Speranza a beautiful bouquet of blue flowers, which is her favorite color.

“Elsie is such a joyous person with a beautiful smile, and we were so honored to share this milestone with her,” said Conroy. “She has connected with so many residents and staff at this community through her kindness and selflessness – she is always looking out for others and brightens everyone’s day.”

Speranza moved to The Meadows at Lawrence in June of 2021, quickly immersing herself socially and becoming a member of the community’s bingo club. She credits her sharp mind to her enjoyment of word search puzzles and other games, such as gin, rummy and solitaire. A former avid bowler and golfer, Speranza still enjoys being active. She frequently attends mass and finds great strength in her Catholic faith. Speranza also loves listening to music, with Frank Sinatra being a personal favorite.

The Meadows at Lawrence, a cottage-style, long-term care skilled nursing community, is part of the 40-acre Lawrence Healthcare Campus. In addition to The Meadows, the campus also includes skilled nursing at Lawrence Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center and Lawrence Rehabilitation Hospital, and assisted living at The Terraces at Lawrence. More information on The Meadows at Lawrence can be found at meadowsatlawrence.com.