Richmond Hill woman celebrates 100th birthday with surprise party at Magnolia Manor

RICHMOND HILL, Ga. (WTOC) - Darlyn Martin, who goes by Dar, celebrated her 100th birthday Saturday with a surprise party at Magnolia Manor senior living facility, surrounded by family, friends, and fellow residents.

Martin’s actual birthday is Sunday. The celebration featured a DJ, cake, balloons, presents, and dancing.

“Never expected it and it’s the best thing that God ever gave me,” Martin said. “Just to see everybody is my joy.”

Family, community gather for the milestone

Martin’s children were by her side throughout the celebration. Her oldest son, Larry Martin, called the milestone a gift.

“It wasn’t expected, but it’s a wonderful thing,” Larry Martin said.

He also told the crowd that, had his father still been alive, the day would have also been his parents’ wedding anniversary.

Richmond Hill Mayor Kristi Cox and her family were also among those invited to the celebration.

A century of staying active

Martin has lived at Magnolia Manor for seven years and said she has never seen a party like this one.

“Everyone did a wonderful job and I can’t thank them enough,” Martin said.

When asked about her secret to a long, healthy, and happy life, Martin pointed to staying active and an open-minded approach to new challenges.

“I think a lot of it is because I was very active, and I just couldn’t find anything that was too big for me not to try,” she said.

As she prepares to blow out 100 candles on Sunday, Martin said she already knows what she will wish for.

“That things look brighter for everybody in the future,” she said.