Mary Branch Grimsley
Cedartown, GA
79 Years Young
Tell us about your family and your accomplishments.
- My parents lived on a farm in Haralson County. There were 8 girls and 1 boy in my family. I finished high school in Tallapoosa.
- I “come up pretty hard.” As a young girl I was called “Daddy’s plow boy” because I helped him with the farm chores.
- A manager at Rosie’s 10 cent Store in Cedartown wanted me to work, but Daddy needed me through the summer. I got to start work there the first of November with the understanding that I would take the money home until I turned 18. I didn’t mind doing that because my parents were good to me. I remember I had to get my social security card if I were to work there.
- I married a few years later and we lived in Cedartown. We had 3 daughters.
- Over the years I worked at Cummings and Martin Furniture Co, taught school and worked at Arrow Plant for 23 ½ years. After retirement from Arrow, I worked at the post office for 8 ½ years.
- I like being busy, and recently fed and watered my daughter’s horses and cleaned the stalls. I was proud to do this and my daughter paid me.
- My first husband and I vacationed in Hawaii.
- Recently, I met Lacy Grimsley at the Center. He was coming to walk and exercise. On January 12, 2008 we were married in a quiet, small ceremony in my home.
Do you visit a senior center?
Yes. Cedartown, Polk County.
How long have you been attending the center?
About 19 years.
What made you start going to the center?
My first husband and I started coming when I turned 60 because we wanted something to do. My new husband and I come together now.
What kinds of activities do you enjoy at the center
Dominos, cards, the trips, bowling. I participate in the exercise and other programs. The Center encourages me to continue to be very active. I also like to ride my bicycle on the Silver Comet Trail and I walk regularly.
How has the center helped you Age Well and Live Well?
Something to get up for. I enjoy the people and the activities.
Do you volunteer at your senior center or at other community organizations?
I help lead the exercises and help serve the food at the Center. I give rides on the golf cart down the Silver Comet Trail. I come by the Center and pick up people who want to go.
What advice would you give to young people today on how to live a good long life?
Stay active.
|
