Mary Davidson Smith: Woman who turned 105 hopes to celebrate next birthday with ‘a good strong whisky’
A centenarian celebrated her 105th birthday in remarkable style by receiving 105 cards from around the world.
Mary Davidson Smith, who lives at Care UK’s Murrayside care home in Edinburgh, said she had a “wonderful time” as she read the well-wishes that followed the home’s call.
The cards traveled from as far away as Singapore for the July celebrations.
Ms. Smith also has the privilege of receiving a card from King Charles, having previously received a card from the late Queen Elizabeth.
She celebrated the milestone with a “wonderful family day out” and had afternoon tea with friends at Murrayside.
Born in Korea, Mary lived internationally throughout her youth, including periods in England, Canada and the USA.
She later joined the Royal Navy and met her future husband, British Army officer Charles Wynard Davidson Smith, while stationed in Washington, D.C.
They continued to live in Edinburgh, where they raised two sons, Neil and Mark, and Mrs Smith now has four grandchildren.
Ms Smith said she was already making plans for her 106th birthday and hoped to celebrate with “a good, strong whisky”.
She said of the birthday cards: “It’s incredible! I’ve never seen so many cards before and they’re all for me.”
Afternoon tea was prepared by the care home chef Jose.
When Mrs. Smith saw the birthday dinner, she joked: “I’m glad you don’t have 105 candles; I don’t have enough breath for that!”
When asked about the secret to a long and happy life, he said: “I enjoy it, keep going.”
Ms Smith also said she came from a “long line of people who lived long lives”.
The care home resident was recently reunited with a special Korean outfit she wore as a young girl almost 100 years ago.
During a private tour of the National Museum of Scotland, officials took him on a private tour of the gallery and reunited him with the outfit.
The outfit, known as chimageogori, consisting of a hat, bag and wraparound jacket, has been described as a charming example of traditional Korean dress, or hanbok.
Suzanne Welsh, home manager at Murrayside care home, said: “It was a real pleasure to celebrate Mary’s 105th birthday.
“He is a much-loved resident who always has so many wonderful stories to share about his extraordinary life.
“Mary is a big part of the Murrayside family and is always keen to get involved, whether it’s outdoors, church events or quizzes.
“He also enjoys attending singing sessions and meeting friends for morning coffee.
“We are committed to ensuring residents continue to live fulfilling and exciting lives in Murrayside.
“The team are delighted to have reached our target of 105 cards; Mary was delighted to receive so much love and well wishes from people all over the world.
“Cheers to Mary!”
