'Role Model' Huntington Resident Turns 107

HUNTINGTON, NY — Rosalia Maria Zona, born in New York City on June 17, 1912, lived through the Great Depression, two World Wars, the moon landing, the civil rights movement and too many technological advancements to count. The Huntington resident celebrated her incredible 107 years of life June 23 alongside her family and town Supervisor of Huntington Chad Lupinacci at Jonathon's Ristorante in Huntington.

"Rosalia is a role model for all of Huntington," Lupinacci said in a news release. "I am honored to have been invited to an event for someone so special, and she is a fantastic singer too."

In her younger years Zona lived quite the exciting life.

She started a modeling career at the age of 14, then attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, earning an associates' degree in advertising and communication, according to the town's website.

She also dated tennis star Don Budge, who won the Wimbledon crown in 1937 and would reportedly "kiss the ball" for her.

Zona has five children, all with her former husband Raymond Havlicek. And she remains active to this day, taking weekly piano lessons and even performing six songs for her birthday guests.