West Orange Woman Celebrates 100th Birthday, Remains Avid Musician

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Morning exercise, reading, puzzles and music. These are some of the things that help centenarian Mattie Wilkerson stay active in West Orange as she celebrates her 100th birthday.

Wilkerson, who lives at Alaris Health Center in West Orange, turned 100-years-old on Saturday.

Mayor Susan McCartney joined Wilkerson’s niece, great-grandson, her fellow residents and staff members at the long-term care facility for a birthday celebration.

According to a news release from the township:

“After high school, Wilkerson attended Boston College, Columbia University and Petersburg University before pursuing a teaching career. She was a devoted music teacher at Arts High School in Newark for 25 years where she enriched and inspired the lives of many students. She was married to her beloved husband James William Wilkerson for 40 years before his passing on December 6, 1992.”

West Orange township officials added:

“Wilkerson continues to display her love for music by playing the piano at Alaris Health to the enjoyment of the other residents. She stays sharp solving crossword puzzles, word find puzzles, and word scrambles. She credits her youthful energy with daily morning exercises, reading the Daily Chronicle, and participating in various Alaris Health activities such as trivia and karaoke events.”

Another recent centenarian celebration took place at a West Orange nursing home last summer, with five local residents getting a round of applause for reaching – or surpassing – their 100th birthdays. Read More: 5 People, 500 Years: West Orange Centenarians Celebrate Birthdays

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