“I had a lot of love to give.” FRANCES ATKINS, 93
Life in a nutshell: Born in Montreal, Atkins became a model at the age of 18, specializing in showing off gorgeously tailored jackets and coats. On a modelling trip to Toronto, a chance meeting at a downtown hair salon led her to her future husband; the woman sitting next to her set her up with her nephew who Atkins says was gorgeous and turned out to be the love of her life. The couple got married and settled in Toronto, and with their four children had a life that was, according to Atkins, “absolute heaven.” Atkins persevered through a cancer scare and the death of her husband in 1989. Fifteen years ago, she taught herself how to paint and often paints portraits of famous jazz musicians, which she likes to give to her children. She recently moved to the Terraces, where she continues to paint and has enjoyed meeting many new friends.
The secret to looking so young: “Love helps. And eating properly helps, too. You need to watch your figure and stay slim and healthy. Walk every day and enjoy life. Also, always put your best foot forward.” The secret to staying in love for decades: “Being loved and being treated so special and with so much respect. And of course, I had a lot of love to give. I’m not going to say it was a perfect marriage — there is time for misunderstandings — but deep down inside, it always felt good.”
Style tips: “Don’t wear clashing patterns,” she says, while wearing a white cape and her signature M.A.C. lipstick colour, Morange. “Choose the pieces that make you feel gorgeous. I like turtlenecks; I have 31.”
New Year’s resolutions: “I’d be happy to do last year over, and the year before; all the good years I’ve had. And have good health and just be happy with my children; they’re the best.”