See this story at BrooklynDaily.com.
By Joanna DelBuono
Brooklyn Daily
Coney Island
101 and counting
Last year it was Gargiulo’s Restaurant in Coney Island (Standing O was there), and this year it was Kings Buffet in Bensonhurst. Gee whiz, centenarian-plus-one, Nannie Harrison really knows how to celebrate!
“She loves fruits and veggies,” says daughter, Virginia Ay-ala, “But she really likes clams, crabs, and oysters.”
So it was off to King Buffet for the 101st fete.
Our pal Nannie, who was born on July 24, 1912 in Virginia, has seen many birthdays, but none as special as this one. On July 27, daughters Virginia, Beatrice Swinton, and Naomi Johnson, along with grandchildren Keisha Lomax, Nadine, Eddie, Evette, Taesha, Carmen, and Elijah helped Nannie blow out the candles and have a piece of cake. Granddaughter Keisha tells Standing O, “Granny has 46 grandchildren and 112 great grandchildren.”
Standing O caught up with daughter Virginia and asked, “Why do you think your mom has lived so long?”
“Well,” she said, “she likes to go to church and serve God, and she eats well.”
Daughter Naomi added, “She goes fishing and plays cards, too.”
Then Keisha chimed: “Nannie also loves having her grandchildern around to show her love, and keeps busy all the time.”
From New Hope Church in Virginia to Bay Ridge Christian Center, Nannie keeps her faith strong and enjoys listening to gospel music.
And she’s always on the move.
“My mom is pretty self sufficient,” said Virginia, “aside from a little high-blood pressure, she’s very healthy.”
And she’s a pleasure to talk to.
“I’m so happy that she lives with me,” concluded Virginia. “She tells me about old times, and she keeps me on my toes.”
Standing O whishes Nannie a very happy birthday, and can’t wait to say “happy 102nd!”
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