“I only realised how old I was when my daughter became a pensioner herself”
Stan Sharp who lives at Townsend Court, our Retirement Living PLUS development in Rushden, Northamptonshire celebrated his 100th birthday with two parties! One in the Townsend Court communal lounge where family, friends and neighbours come together to mark the occasion and to share in Stanley’s daughter's delicious homemade cakes. His second party was in London with guests from across the globe, including the USA, Canada and Russia.
Asked how he feels to reach this milestone, Stan said: “Surprised! I don’t know where the years have gone. I only realised how old I was when my daughter became a pensioner herself.”
Stan’s life revolved around sport, family and number - crunching
Stan grew-up in South London where he and his older brother enjoyed playing football in the street. Stan remembered they were always “trying not to break the neighbour’s windows!” Stan was a competitive sportsman, excelling at football, cricket and golf. He was awarded a bursary for Dulwich College, though couldn’t take it up due to his parents’ financial situation.
Despite this, Stan became a chartered account, starting his own practice and employing a team of staff.
He married his wife Eve in 1953, and they were happily married for 66 years until she sadly passed away in 2019, two years after they moved to Townsend Court together. Stan and Eve had three children and he is the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Retirement living in Rushden is “relaxing”
Stan enjoys crosswords with his daughter though confesses “we occasionally have to consult Alexa for the answer!” He also enjoys pub lunches and family gatherings. He credits moving to Townsend Court with helping him lead a more relaxed life, saying “I’m closer to family and enjoy the company of other residents, the events, and meals in the restaurant” and that it “takes away the worry of the upkeep of a large house and garden.”
On the secret to reaching such a special milestone, Stan credits “taking an interest in the news and sports and trying to keep up with modern technology where I can!”
On the most important invention of his lifetime? “Not the calculator - I could always add up more quickly! The TV allows you to see the world without travelling, giving endless learning opportunities for my era.”
And his best advice for the younger generation? “Save as much as you can for your first home… and send your wife flowers often!” What a great tip!
Find a retirement community that celebrates the milestones near you
From independent living retirement properties for over 60s, to assisted living at our Retirement Living PLUS apartments for over 70s, our lovely properties in stunning locations are thoughtfully designed so you can make the most of your retirement whether you’re just over 60 or heading for 100 - and you’ll have a lively community of new neighbours on the doorstep too.
Learn more our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
