Neighbors share same birthday as they turn 101 and celebrate long, happy lives
Living next door to a neighbor who is exactly your age and who shares the very same birthday may seem like an extraordinary coincidence, but for Josie Church and Anne Wallace-Hadrill, it’s a reality they have been living since the 1980s. These two great-grandmothers were born on April 1, 1924, and have been inseparable ever since.
Both women have led remarkable lives filled with adventure, resilience, and creativity. Anne Wallace-Hadrill, originally from Hampshire, served as a radio mechanic in the Women’s Royal Naval Service during World War II. After the war, she taught English at St. Hilda’s College, Oxford University, and worked as a lexicographer for the Oxford English Dictionary. She received a well-deserved medal from the Royal Navy last year for her service.
Josie Church, on the other hand, trained as a nurse at Preston Royal Infirmary during the introduction of the National Health Service (NHS). Her nursing career included caring for SS German soldiers during World War II, an experience she described as challenging but eye-opening. After moving to Oxford with her husband, who was pursuing his degree at University College, she balanced work and family life while looking after 120 boys as the house nurse at a boys’ boarding school.
Despite their different paths, Josie and Anne formed a strong friendship after the passing of their respective husbands. They have been each other’s support system, sharing in each other’s joys and challenges. Their shared birthday has only strengthened their bond, as they celebrated their 100th birthday together surrounded by friends and neighbors who have become like family.
When asked about the secret to living a long and fulfilling life, Josie Church simply said, “Just live.” Both women emphasized the importance of staying active, engaged, and open to new experiences. They attribute their longevity to a combination of luck, resilience, and a positive outlook on life.
As they approach their 101st birthday, Josie and Anne continue to inspire those around them with their zest for life and unwavering friendship. Their story serves as a reminder that age is just a number and that true companionship knows no bounds. They are a testament to the power of resilience, friendship, and the simple joys of everyday life.
