Cape's Mary Whitmore

Turned 103 this year, sharing her secrets

Mary Whitmore this year celebrated birthday 103, or nearly 38,000 days of sharing her sunshine. Her arrival in 1914 coincided with Henry Ford’s $5 workday and Babe Ruth's pitching his first game with Boston. Mary was born in Pittsburgh, lived through interesting periods in American history, including Charles Lindbergh's trans-Atlantic flight and now space travel. Her first job was with Kaufmann’s, a prominent department store. In her day, Mary danced, attended church and made clothes. She was married to Albert. Today she enjoys sing-alongs, reading magazines and visiting the beauty parlor to socialize with her many friends. She lives in Cape Coral in the Gulf Coast Village community. Mary shared her tips for longevity with Cape Coral Living magazine. CCL What has been the secret? Mary Whitmore: “Living a ‘normal’ life, and always made and ate fresh, homemade healthy meals. After school, I worked in an office, so I learned the value of a good work ethic at a young age. My dad was good looking and my mom was pretty, so I came from good genes!” CCL Advice to youngsters in their 60s? MW “Enjoy good healthy food and love your family!” CCL Does keeping happy help us age better? MW “Yes, I’m a happy person, most of the time, and happiness is important to living well.” CCL What’s the one vice we should avoid? MW “Don’t do things in abundance―don't overeat, over-drink or overwork yourself!