The family of Helen Morris celebrated the matriarch’s 100th birthday with a gathering held Dec. 18 at the Morris family home.

“I’ve had such a wonderful life,” said Morris, the widow of former Alexandria Circuit Court Judge Lewis Morris. “I am so filled with gratitude just to be with family, living here in Alexandria and looking back at all the friends we have made.”

Born Dec. 27, 1921, Morris was 18 when she married the 20-year-old Lewis Morris, who was in the service.

“My husband was a wonderful person,” Morris said of her spouse, who died at the age of 80 in 1999. “We were married 59 years. We were so young but the Lord really blessed me.”

The secret to her longevity? “Remember that life is short. Love people and enjoy being with people. Don’t be alone.  To be with people is one of life’s greatest gifts.”

Lew Morris gives his mother Helen a kiss in advance of her 100th birthday Dec. 27, 2021.