Concord Place, an Anthem Memory Care community, recognized resident Virgie Jean Gasaway for reaching her 100th birthday by inducting her into the Century Club of East Tennessee on Thursday, April 2, at the community located at 901 Concord Rd., Knoxville, TN.
Married more than 70 years, Gasaway and her husband, Lotus, built their home in Powell, where they raised a son, who is now deceased. She boasts two grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.
She has built a life defined by dedication, quiet strength, and a deep appreciation for learning as a bookkeeper for Sears and later a shorthand typist and secretary for the military.
Speaking at the induction, Lorie Ann Wilson, the life engagement director for Concord Place, stated: “Today, as she joins the Century Club, we honor not only Virgie Jean’s 100 years, but also the grace, resilience, and quiet wisdom she has shared with everyone fortunate to know her.”
Raised in Onieda, TN, Gasaway attended a one-room schoolhouse for her early education, and when she went to high school, she was determined to show the kids she was smart. She loves to tell of winning the school spelling bee.
As a child, she would often ride the rails to spend time with her father, who was a train conductor.
Gasaway met her husband while she was working at Y12. After she retired from Sears and Lotus retired as well, the two traveled around the country delivering boats.
As a lifelong reader, Gasaway credits books for keeping her mind alive and her spirit curious.
As a devout Christian, she is known for caring for others. Her hobbies include sewing, gardening, cooking, and of course, reading.
Her advice for a long life is simple: “Maintain good oral hygiene and never stop reading.”
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