News

Actions

'Truly blessed' Virginia woman turns 104 years old on April 1

Granddaughter: 'Her secret to life is living to her fullest'
Posted
and last updated

RICHMOND, Va. -- A Virginia woman celebrating a milestone birthday this weekend credits her longevity to her family and living life to the fullest.

Laura Garnett Taylor Neale turned 104 years old on Saturday.

The centenarian was born in 1919 and grew up in a home called Peach Tree in King and Queen County. She graduated from Marriott High school before attending business school, according to her granddaughter.

Then she went to work for the clerk of the court in King William County before marrying Dr. Mark Milton Neale Sr., who was a family dentist in West Point. She spent most of her adult life in that quaint town on the water.

Neale, who now lives in Richmond, has 4 children, 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

She remembers when WTVR, the South's First Television Station, first began broadcasting 75 years ago. She loves watching college basketball, baseball and football on CBS 6, her granddaughter said.

Neale credits her longevity to her strong faith, love of family and friends, lots of laughter and being kind to those in need.

"Her secret to life is living to her fullest and being around her wonderful family," her granddaughter said. "She is truly blessed."

Neale also offered these words of wisdom: "Be kind to others. Stay strong in your faith. Live by the Golden Rule."

Happy Birthday, Mrs. Neale!

Do you know someone celebrating a milestone birthday? Click here to email WTVR.com and the CBS 6 News team.