Congratulations to Ednamae Dunham, who turned 98 on Aug. 22!
Dunham is a resident of Solana East Cobb, an Arbor Company community in Marietta, Ga.
Some residents who get this close to the 100-year mark are surprised, but Dunham believes longevity runs in her family.
“My mother lived to be 104,” she said. “Maybe it was good genes.”
She also has a few other theories about why she has been lucky to reach this milestone.
“I led a clean life,” she said. “I don’t drink a lot. I try to be kind. And I have a wonderful family, which is a big plus.”
Born in 1922, Dunham remembers the Great Depression all too well. Like many of her generation, she continues to live by the many lessons learned during that difficult time.
“I have always been very frugal,” she said. “I always bought things on sale. I try not to waste anything. My mother was also good at that and taught me well.”
Dunham was in college at Ohio University when the United States entered World War II. She ended up going to summer school in order to graduate.
“Most of our boyfriends, including my husband-to-be, Elmer, wanted to fly airplanes,” she said. “But he went in the Navy and was stationed in Alaska.”
Even after all she has witnessed over the course of her life, Dunham said: “I can’t believe I am living through this virus.” But she’s thankful that her children, now grown, are all safe. And of course, she’s proud of her five great-grandchildren!
“We love having Ednamae in our community,” said Megan Novak, Engagement director at Solana East Cobb. “She always has a smile for everyone and a great outlook on life. We’re honored to share her special day with her!”
