Joan Hawken, a cherished resident of St. Benedict’s Nursing Home in Glastonbury, recently marked her 101st birthday surrounded by loved ones, friends, and dedicated staff.
Born Edna Joan Bailey in 1924 and raised in Dinder near Wells, Joan played a vital role during World War II. From 1941 to 1944, she supported the war effort through her work at the Admiralty and as a Red Cross volunteer, commuting daily by train to Bath. In 1949, Joan married David Sheppard, and together they raised three daughters in Chilcompton. After being widowed in 1978, she returned to Wells and married her second husband, Don Hawken, in 1983. He passed away in 2013.
Now a proud mother of three daughters, grandmother to seven, and great-grandmother to fourteen, Joan resides at St. Benedict’s Nursing Home. Her 101st birthday celebration featured her favorite lemon drizzle cake, festive decorations, and heartfelt moments shared with those closest to her.
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Rachel Kuzemka, Joan’s daughter, reflected, “Turning 101 is a remarkable milestone. She enjoyed sharing her special day and reminiscing about her life with people who mean so much to her.”
Peter Hansraj, deputy manager at St. Benedict’s Nursing Home under the White Care Group, added, “Joan is a remarkable lady and a treasured member of our community. Reaching 101 is an incredible achievement.”