Each birthday represents a unique occasion, a date meant for remembrance and enjoyment. For Elizabeth Cummings Hertling and her acquaintances, several recent birthdays stand out as particularly significant. Two years prior, a group of firefighters from Orlando arrived to join in her festivities. The mayor also made an appearance. After all, reaching the age of one hundred is quite rare. It’s worth noting that this celebration occurred two years ago. By the time this article is published, Elizabeth will have welcomed her 104th birthday!
There are numerous reasons for recognizing an individual as one of OurSenior’s “Amazing Seniors.” If you had the opportunity to converse with this centenarian, it would be evident that she fits this distinction. At the age of 104, Elizabeth Hertling exhibits the intellect and expressiveness typical of a dynamic, young adult. She recalls her childhood, her employers, and her journeys across the United States and Europe. She vividly remembers the world in which she was born and how drastically it contrasts with today’s society.
She entered the world 104 years ago in Charleston, West Virginia. Although Charleston served as the capital of West Virginia and was the state’s largest city, it still maintained the charm of a small town. When she was young, her parents separated, and her mother took on the responsibility of raising her. When reflecting on her early years, she expressed two thoughts: “We struggled financially” and “I hope to never see another snowflake again.”
Elizabeth belongs to what is known as “The Greatest Generation,” individuals who refused to be defeated or discouraged by challenging situations. At the age of 18, she landed her first job at the S. S. Kresge & Co. store in Charleston. The Kresge establishments were open from 9 to 5 on weekdays and 9 to 9 on Saturdays, which resulted in a 52-hour work week for which she earned $9.95! Elizabeth considers herself someone willing to take on any challenge, so she quickly adjusted when assigned to the hardware section. During that period, it was rare to find a woman in such a role.
Her dedication and aptitude for numbers did not go unnoticed. She received a promotion to the office and bookkeeping sector, earning $17 weekly. Throughout this time, she committed herself to personal growth. With the help of a scholarship, she pursued studies at Kanawha Community College and the University of Charleston. A significant portion of her career would involve roles in administration and accounting, frequently serving America’s military.
Certainly, numerous days filled with work and study have merged in her recollections of Charleston, yet some memories remain prominent. Seniors might remember the “paper boys” who would shout headlines on street corners while selling local newspapers. That was the moment she discovered the news of the Pearl Harbor attack after exiting a cinema. Four years later, she found herself witnessing an unplanned parade celebrating V. E. Day, during which the parade Marshall invited her to join the march, entrusted her with his baton, and allowed her to take the lead.
Similar to many individuals from that “Greatest Generation,” Elizabeth was not content to remain at home indefinitely. Her philosophy has consistently been “Do what you wish. If it doesn’t suit you initially, give it a go anyway!” One day, she stumbled upon a book that you might remember, “Fodors Europe on $10 a Day.” This sparked her desire to explore, prompting her to journey to Europe without a partner or companion. Elizabeth was always eager for new experiences!
Upon her return, she continued her professional life, frequently taking on roles connected to the military. One such position was at Camp Lejeune, where she met General Chesty Puller, the most decorated Marine in U. S. history. While America regards General Puller as a formidable combatant, Elizabeth recalls his commitment to his family.
Throughout her journeys and escapades, she found moments to marry three times, outliving each husband. She faced numerous significant health challenges, including a form of cancer that might have been linked to the contaminated water from Camp Lejeune. Each time, she battled the illness and continued to thrive. Though she ceased driving last year, she has retained her Prius just in case. For many years, she was recognized as the “Bridge Lady” at Beardall Senior Center in Orlando, where she coordinated bridge games and tournaments.
Elizabeth is eager for many more fulfilling years ahead. After all, she had aunts who reached the ages of 105 and 108. Most importantly, she is spirited, attentive, and brimming with joy! When OurSeniors inquired about her key to longevity, she did not mention any specific food, exercise regimen, or health product. Instead, she reiterated her philosophy, “Do what you want. If it doesn’t suit you at first, give it a shot anyway. You can adjust it as you grow older.”
Here’s to you, Elizabeth Hertling. You undeniably merit the title of “Amazing Senior.”
