Constance Pullom, a war-time pianist and former member of an RAF band during World War II, recently celebrated her 104th birthday at Ivybank House Care Home in Bath. Born in Southampton in 1921, Constance was a gifted student who later joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAFF) during wartime. She found solace and camaraderie in playing the piano in an RAF band and continued to contribute to the war effort by working in a factory.
After the war, Constance married her husband David in 1951, and they lived in Cheltenham, Bristol, and Bath. She developed a passion for travel and explored various parts of the world, including a journey across the United States on a Greyhound bus.
Even at 104, Constance retains her love for playing the piano, performing on her keyboard at Ivybank every morning. Her daily routine includes playing ‘happy birthday’ as she believes it’s always someone’s birthday somewhere in the world.
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On reaching this remarkable milestone, Constance shared her philosophy, stating, “I think the secret to a long life is staying active in mind and body. Even though my traveling days are probably behind me now, I still ensure my life is filled with new experiences. I love the activities and gardens here at Ivybank and I watch a documentary each evening to keep learning.”
Expressing gratitude, Constance thanked the caring team at Ivybank House and her loved ones for the delightful birthday celebration. Andrew Pow, Ivybank House home manager, also acknowledged the joy of celebrating this milestone with Constance and praised her active participation within the Ivybank community.