Dell Rose Court resident Millie is celebrating her 104th birthday this February, marking more than a century of stories, laughter and a life lived fully.

Born on 8 February 1922 in Scotland, Millie was a twin and one of ten children. As a teenager, she joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) and moved to England, where she met her late husband, who served in the RAF. Together, they raised three children, and today, Millie is also a proud (great) grandmother.

Family is at the heart of Millie’s life. No birthday ever passed without a homemade cake, even for relatives living back in Scotland, and her love of baking is legendary. Apple pies, sponge cakes and endless sweet treats were packed up for visitors, and she was known for making full three-course meals from scratch.

An avid dancer and singer, Millie has always loved the foxtrot, quickstep and waltz; she famously tried (and failed) to teach her children the steps. Even now, she’s rarely far from the dancefloor. On her 100th birthday, she reportedly danced for hours, leaving her family “for dust.”

Millie also maintained a tradition of seasonal fruit picking and remains well-known for her raspberry jam, which she still makes to this day.

In 2021, Millie moved to Dell Rose to be closer to her family, quickly developing a reputation for her mischievous sense of humour and “naughty stories”. Always impeccably turned out, she enjoys getting her nails and hair done weekly, and dressing up in her best pearls for a party.

Asked about the secret to her longevity, Millie keeps it simple: staying active and never letting age define her.

“Inside, I feel twenty-five,” she says. “You’ve got t’ laugh!”

Her family describes her as a performer, entertainer, and master of finding joy in the everyday. A “truly glamorous granny”, Millie is someone you can always count on to make you laugh at the most unexpected moments, whether through a story, a shared game, or a “wee cuppa” and a treat.

As Millie celebrates her 104th birthday, she continues to charm those around her with her warmth, wit and unmistakable sparkle.  In the words of her family:

“Here’s to you, Nan—104 years of grace, humour, love, and wisdom. We are so lucky to have you.”