East Orange Woman Turns 108 On Martin Luther King Jr. Day

EAST ORANGE, NJ — It’s not every day that someone turns 108. But celebrating your birthday on Martin Luther King Jr. Day? That’s “serendipitous,” city officials in East Orange say.

On Monday, longtime East Orange resident Inez Rosalie Alick Elliot turned 108-years-old, a special occasion that was celebrated at Pine Acres Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Madison.

Affectionately known as “Rose” to family and friends, Elliot was born on Jan. 20, 1917 at Overlook Hospital in Summit. She is the only daughter of Bermudian parents and grew up “surrounded by love and strong values.”

Here are some things to know about one of New Jersey’s oldest centenarians, according to East Orange city officials:

Family Bonds – Rose married Disabled Veteran William “Bill” Elliott and devoted her life to being a homemaker while also working as a crossing guard. Though the couple did not have children of their own, Rose shares a close bond with her goddaughter, Rosalind Johnson, and her sister-in-law, Pearline Elliott Whitney. Rose lived with Pearline in East Orange for 23 years, where she was a loving support in helping to raise Pearline’s two sets of twins during the 1950s. In 1980, Rose lost her beloved husband, but her strength and faith carried her forward. As she celebrates her 108th birthday on January 20, 2025, her community, family, and friends continue to honor her incredible legacy.

Community and Faith – Faith has always been a cornerstone of Rose’s life. A long-time member of Calvary Baptist Church in East Orange, she also served as a proud member of the Eastern Star of Bethlehem of Roselle, NJ, Chapter No. 26 OES-PHA, where she held the title of Past Matron for the 1962-63 term. Since joining the organization in 1950, Rose has embodied the spirit of service and dedication.

Service and Recognition – Rose’s commitment to her community has been recognized with numerous accolades. She was honored with the Essex County Legends Award for her contributions to shaping today’s community and improving the lives of fellow seniors. Known for her grace, laughter, and wisdom, she remains a positive role model for younger generations. In her centennial year, Rose was celebrated by the congregation at Park Avenue St. John’s United Methodist Church in East Orange. During this joyous occasion, she shared her secret to a long life: “Faith in God, staying calm, and laughing as often as you can.” In addition, she received recognition from the late New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver for her 100th birthday during a celebration in Newark, New Jersey. In 2021 at the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Mayor Green also recognized Rose for her remarkable achievements and her contributions to the community.

Passions and Hobbies – Rose has always found joy in reading, arts and crafts, playing cards, dominos, and bingo. She cherished traveling to Bermuda to connect with her extended family and enjoyed visiting loved ones in Montclair, NJ. Her life is filled with memories of simple pleasures and the deep relationships she cultivated.

Elliot’s life is a testament to her “faith in God, her positive outlook, and her unwavering commitment to serving others,” officials said.

“This achievement is a testament to the strength, resilience, and wisdom that come with a long life,” said East Orange Mayor Ted Green, who paid a birthday visit to Elliot along with Madison Mayor Bob Conley, Essex County Prosecutor Ted Stephens and Rita Butts-Stephens, manager of senior services.

“It reminds us all of the importance of living with purpose, cherishing each day, and valuing the legacy we leave for future generations,” Green said. “Ms. Inez is truly a remarkable woman and it is so fitting that we are able to honor her on the same day that we recognize the powerful work of Dr. King.”

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