Ruby Druce, thought to be Ireland's oldest person, marks her 109th birthday today. A native of Castlefinn, County Donegal, Ruby has lived through two world wars, two global pandemics, and a century of profound change.
A Life of Resilience
Born on December 31, 1915, Ruby is the eldest of five children of George Crawford and Elizabeth McBride. Her early years were marked by the Spanish flu pandemic, which claimed the lives of two of her siblings in 1918. Remarkably, Ruby herself survived after her father gave her a teaspoon of poitín, her only taste of alcohol in a life otherwise free of drinking and smoking.
A Hardworking Pioneer
Ruby left school at 14 to work in Porter’s shirt factory in Castlefinn, a job she held for over 40 years before caring for her aging father, a shoemaker. In 1956, she married her childhood sweetheart, Jim Druce, a Scottish-born musician. The couple enjoyed many happy years together before Jim's passing in 1970.
Longevity Secrets and Family Support
Ruby credits her long life to walking, hard work, a daily cod liver oil capsule, and her strong Christian faith. A pioneer for 94 years, she remains devoted to prayers and the rosary.
Now cared for by family spanning four generations, Ruby moved in with her niece Carmel Harran and her husband Martin last summer. Her previous caregiver, niece Margo Butler, cared for her for a decade before passing away.
Cherished Memories and Milestones
Despite breaking her hip at age 98, Ruby has lived an independent and vibrant life. In her 80s, she traveled to Toronto to visit family and went on a pilgrimage to Lourdes.
Ruby has received nine commemorative coins from the Irish President and, on her 100th birthday, donated her centenarian's cheque to local charities. A fan of singer Daniel O’Donnell, she recently sang "The Homes of Donegal" with him during a visit.
Community Love
Students from St. Mary’s NS in Castlefinn recently sent her Christmas cards, and Ruby continues to inspire those around her. As her niece Martin Harran remarked, "She’s a very special lady, and it’s been a pleasure having her in our home."
Happy 109th birthday to Ruby Druce, a true icon of resilience, generosity, and faith!
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