Gertrude Thomas (middle) is with her lifelong friend, 100-year-old Edith Goff and physical therapist Rhonda.

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) – On March 1, more than 100 well-wishers joined Gertrude Irene Thomas at Brookhaven Home to celebrate her 108 years of life. Family, friends and city officials were among those who attended.

Many of those friends were from Rio Linda, where Thomas lived from 1957 up until last September when a fall brought her to Brookhaven Home Care. Thomas’ lifetime friend, 100-year-old Edith Goff, was by her side the entire day.

 

Citrus Heights City Councilmember Tim Schaefer (top left) stands with friends and family members of Gertrude Thomas (wrapped in blanket).

A sizeable guest book was created by the family-run home care facility. Sisters, Emma and Dennisa, who work at Brookhaven, had guests write a special note to Thomas at the entrance. Those who attended were welcome to two dessert tables full of homemade sweets. Music by violinist Ciprian Mihut added to the day’s enjoyment.

There was a homey atmosphere in every room as well-wishers stood in line in the hallway to say happy birthday. Thomas, who wore a bright red dress and pearls, was applauded as she made her entrance into an elegantly- decorated living room.

 

Proud grandfather Paul is with Gertrude Thomas’ 16th great-great grandchild, April Elizabeth, born Jan. 27.

Thomas’ family includes her husband, Floyd; five children; 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 16 great-great-grandchildren. The most recent addition to the family is April Elizabeth, who was born on Jan. 27.

Several of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were at the party. Many relatives traveled from as far as Texas for Thomas’ birthday.

Pastor Peter McKever of the First Baptist Church of Elverta leads the church televised service that Thomas and her family watch on Sundays. McKever said in his meal blessing, “She is a prayer warrior. When she gets up in the morning, I’m sure the devil said, ‘Oh no’ she’s up again!”

 

Gertrude Thomas’ family members from Texas and San Diego attended the 108th birthday party. 

Sacramento Metro Fire firefighters serenaded her, which is a tradition that the fire department carries out every year on her birthday.

Citrus Heights Mayor Jayna Karpinski-Costa, City Councilmember Tim Schaeffer and City Manager Ash Feeney added their congratulations and good wishes to Thomas.

“I’m proud and honored to be here with all her friends and family,’’ Karpinski-Costa said.

A long-lost friend reconnected with the birthday girl. Barbara Kauer recognized a familiar name and photo in an article where Thomas received a proclamation from the City of Citrus Heights on March 26. Kauer then attended the birthday celebration where they were reunited, not knowing they had also been neighbors in Citrus Heights.

 

Johnny and Dennisa of Brookhaven Home Care set up the dessert table at Gertrude Irene Thomas' 108th birthday on March 1. 

One recipient of Thomas’ ever growing volunteer and financial support is the Union Gospel Mission Sacramento. Recently retired Union Gospel Mission Executive Director Tim Lane said he was honored to be invited to the party. Lane said that Thomas and her friends would go to the mission on Saturdays with sandwiches and to preach at their church service. Thomas told her friends “No gifts, and that instead any funds donated would be split between Union Gospel Mission and Bible Couriers.

“I’m her biggest fan. She is so genuine and so sweet,” Lane said. “At age 105, she made her walker go like lighting.”

Whenever asked what her secret to long life is, Thomas’ answer does not change: “Trust in the Lord and be happy.”