Mary Quinn was the guest of her honor at her 100^th birthday party celebration Tuesday afternoon at the Franklin Court Assisting Living community room. She was welcomed by several family members and a number of her fellow residents and friends.

In addition, Mary, who will officially turn 100 on Nov. 21, received citations from the Town Of Bristol (presented by Town Clerk Louis Cirillo and Town Administrator Steven Contente,) as well as the Rhode Island House of Representatives (presented by Susan Donovan.) Entertainment was provided by Gary Farias.

Born in Central Falls, the daughter of the late Laura (Regan) Boland and Joseph P. Boland, Mary was and still is very active in her everyday routine. She has two children, Patrick Francis Quinn and Maureen Mulvaney. Mary was also the beloved wife of the late Terrence Quinn, a captain in the U.S. Army during World War II, who passed away at the age of 56 in 1973.

“Mary loved dancing,” remembers her younger sister, Kit Alfano. “She’s very vivacious and intelligent.”

Mary’s daughter, who traveled all the way from San Diego, Calif. to help mark her mother’s centennial birthday, said her mom has always been a very special lady.

“She can remember a lot of things from the past,” she explained. “My mother has always had a positive attitude.”     

“I take every day as it comes,” said Mary, in a quiet tone. “Every day is a good day. I love living here, and everything about it.”

Angela P. Cabral, Franklin Court Assisting Living Administrator, concurs that Mary Quinn is a unique woman who is beloved by all.

“She’s a joy to be around,” said Ms. Cabral. “She’s always the life of the party, and she’s an inspiration to all of us here.”