Published July 12. 2023 11:27AM
by BEVERLY SPRINGER Special to The Press
In the summer of 1921, President Warren Harding signed a congressional resolution ending America’s state of war with Germany, Austria and Hungary, the first radio baseball game was broadcast and Florence Speary was born.
Recently, Speary celebrated her 102nd birthday. Looking a great deal younger than her years, when she realized her picture would be published, Speary quipped, “I should have gone to the beauty parlor.”
A former resident of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., Speary had been employed working in the outgoing mail department of Guideposts, the publication founded by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, author of The Power of Positive Thinking. Long retired, 12 years ago Speary relocated from New York to Emmaus.
She takes pride in her two children, five grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Speary’s son Bob lives in California and was unable to attend her party. However, her daughter Pat Hafemann, of Fogelsville and Pat’s friend Joe Houston joined with her friends in celebrating her special day.
PRESS PHOTOS BY BEVERLY SPRINGER A personal banner enhances the festivities for Florence Speary as she celebrates 102 years around the globe.
PRESS PHOTOS BY BEVERLY SPRINGER Joe Houston and Speary's daughter Pat Hafemann join birthday girl Florence Speary for a photo.
From left to right, resident volunteers Linda Landis, Lois Haberstumpf, Senior Center Manager Rachel Cubellis and resident volunteer Carol Rompilla work together to create Florence Speary's celebration.
Florence Speary celebrates her 102nd birthday. Additional photos appear on Page A2.
