George celebrated his on May 15 with family, staff and residents, when Maryknoll hosted a small gathering with balloons, cake, food and music. 

Meanwhile, Edna celebrated hers on July 4 with birthday cards from Queen Elizabeth II and the Governor General and a special High Tea at Maryknoll surrounded by her family, residents and staff. 

Edna grew up in England, where she worked in an office. She has three children, three grandchildren with one great grandchild on the way, about which she is very excited. 

“Stay healthy,” was the advice Edna has for those wanting a long life. 

“I would say to the younger generation to always help everyone, and keep your family close,” she added.

George has a son and a daughter, five grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. 

In his early years during the war, George worked as a Captain for a transport company and later he worked his way up to become a Manager for the CSA Company Warehouse. 

Asked what advice he would give his grandchildren about growing up in this day and age, George said: “It is risky business handing out advice”. 

George, who lived at Lourdes Village for 14 years prior settling into Maryknoll Hostel five years ago, has been a much-loved member of the Catholic Care of the Aged community for nearly 20 years. 

Edna has enjoyed living at Maryknoll for the past 7 years. 

“I love the view I have from my room, walking outside on the hill and the location of the hostel itself,” George said.

 “The staff are all so kind and organised,” Edna said.

To put George and Edna’s birth days in context, also born in 1918 were Spike Milligan, William Holden, and Nelson Mandela.