Lisburn Mayor Ronnie Crawford and staff of Parklands pictured with Eileen Bacon on her 100th Birthday at Parklands Nursing Home on Tuesday. US3408-117A0 Picture By: Aidan O'Reilly	Lisburn Mayor Ronnie Crawford , Residents and staff of Parklands pictured with Eileen Bacon on her 100th Birthday at Parklands Nursing Home on Tuesday. US3408-118A0 Picture By: Aidan O'Reilly

BIRTHDAY celebrations were held recently at Parklands, Lisburn, to mark the 100th birthday of Mrs Eileen Bacon.

The Mayor, Councillor Ronnie Crawford, was among friends and relations who came during the day to say 'Happy Birthday' to the oldest resident and staff prepared a special birthday tea.

The previous day, Eileen was the guest of honour at a lunch part when four generations of her immediate family gathered at the

home of her youngest daughter Helen for this wonderful occasion. Eileen, nee Gillespie, was baptised in Malone Presbyterian Church and married John Bacon there in 1940. They lived in Belfast for many years where they brought up three daughters, Joan, Sheila and Helen. Eileen was a very proficient badminton and tennis player and in later years enjoyed playing golf. She has continued her long association with her Church. She sang in the choir for many years and still attends the senior citizens' coffee morning.

Eileen and John moved to Lambeg in 1976. John passed away in 1986 and Eileen moved to Parklands eight years ago. There she has been able to enjoy independence and companionship in comfortable surroundings. Her family appreciates the care and support she receives from the staff, community carers and district nurses, enabling her to remain in what is now 'home'.

Ulster Star
29/08/2008