Mary King celebrates her 100th birthday

Reaching 100 years old isn’t just about longevity—it’s a celebration of a life filled with travel, joy, determination, hardship, love, and purpose. Mary King has seen and experienced a little of everything.

Mary (Conway) King, of Dryden turned 100 years-old earlier this month, she was born in 1925. People from all walks of Mary’s life came to Castle Creek banquet hall this past Sunday to celebrate with her, including family members from Australia.

Mary was a War Bride and came to America to marry George King, who she meet when he was in the Air Force stationed in Australia. Story has it they met roller skating and instantly fell in love.

Mary’s life was not an easy one. Her father, like most in the small town of Ipswich, were coal miners. Mary came to America in her early 20’s. Mary and other ‘War Brides’ endured the month long ship ride, most in a constant state of sea sickness.

Mary married George and had three children, Danny, Kenny and Cathy. Mary lives in her home of 62 years yet today. Her health remains remarkably good, she takes a small amount of medicine and lives by herself, although her daughter Cathy visits everyday.

Mary quickly became a cherished community member of Dryden and continued so for decades. She was active in 4-H, Weston Elementary School and the Dryden Catholic Church. Most noteable is her 50-plus year leadership in Girl Scouts.

At age 80, Mary fought off stage four colon cancer.

Mary lost her son Kenny in 1976, her husband George in 2003 and son Danny in 2021. Her daughter Cathy (Cowell), granddaughter Morgan and son-in-law Rich keep a close eye on her.

Over 100 people celebrated with Mary this past Sunday, enjoying a meal and of course birthday cake.