Watch: Celebrating 100 years of memories
A memory she shared was when she witnessed the eclipse of the moon during one random afternoon in 1940.
It’s not every day that people get to celebrate their 100th birthday, but for Cosmos Old Age Home resident Mildred Gcali she lives to see her great grandchildren growing up.
Gcali celebrated her special birthday with friends, family and staff on February 19.
Wearing her brown dress with a matching doek, Gcali sat like a princess at her decorated table full of sweets, chips, balloons and flowers.
Making the day extra sweet for the centenarian, Shoprite and Checkers Hyper donated a large cake written “Happy 100 years Mrs Mildred Gcali” which also sat on top of the table.
Cosmos Old Age Home staff rendered beautiful songs during the celebration as well an up-tempo version of “Happy Birthday”.
Gcali, who is a professional teacher, was described by many as an intelligent person who’s forever smiling.
Her nephew, Mabhele Dyasi, said: “My aunt’s memory of things that happened years ago amazes us because people her age don’t remember things, but she does. We thank God that he kept her alive and we are blessed to celebrate such a momentous occasion.”
Deborah Lelathla, Cosmos Old Age Home general assistant, described Gcali as a humble person and a straight talker.
“Gcali doesn’t beat around the bush, she tells you what she wants to say now, but with a smile,” Lelathla said.
Her 99-year-old roommate Paulina Nkosi said her friend is a feisty person.
“We always argue because she likes to tell me that I shouldn’t tell her anything because I’m younger than her. Besides our small fights, we love each other like sisters,” said Nkosi.
Meanwhile, her 70-year-old first born son, Archie Gcali, said they are planning to have a big party in the Eastern Cape around March, as per her mother’s wish.
- About this wonderful woman
She grew up in the Eastern Cape and got married at the age of 27 to Vuso Gcali, who passed away in 2000.
She is blessed with four children and 12 grandchildren.
Gcali started living at Cosmos Old Age Home from the age of 93.
Some of the memories she shared with the Advertiser was when she boarded a flight for the first time, all thanks to her daughter-in-law.
