BARB BARRETT/The Luminary Florence Rider recently turned 101 and was recognized for her many accomplishments at the East Lycoming Historical Society’s annual tea on April 22.

HUGHESVILLE – Florence Rider has outlived many of her friends, peers and relatives. She is remarkably young for just turning 101 years old on Monday, May 1st. The Hughesville resident still lives alone, bakes cookies, makes teddy bears and chocolate dipped candy and is active every day. That is her secret, she says, to her long-lived life.

She gave birth to seven children, worked at Glamorize, cleaned cottages in Eagles Mere where she grew up and played bocce. These are but just a few of her many accomplishments.

She was recognized at the East Lycoming Historical Society’s tea for her palm crosses that she makes for four area churches, two assisted living centers and sometimes to patients at the hospital. She has been doing this craft with some of her family members for the past 20 years. “It is a family tradition,” she said and hopes her grandchildren will continue the tradition.

She is a member of the ladies auxiliary at the Muncy Skilled Nursing Unit where she makes the teddy bears for the patients.

She also enjoys crocheting doilies and afghans and gardening. In the spring and summer she plants pots. She said she feels she has led a very fulfilling life.

Happy Birthday Florence Rider!