Ardglass celebrated her 100th birthday last week, surrounded by many friends and family.
Mabel McComiskey was the centre of attention at her party on Friday past, which was held at Ardglass Golf Club and attended by 90 people, including two cousins who travelled from New Orleans to celebrate with Mabel.
Following the event, Mabel said: “It was absolutely wonderful. It went off perfectly. The food was out of this world, and the atmosphere was so good.
“I was so happy to have all my friends around me who have done so much for me.”
Mabel explained that there are a few reasons why she has been able to enjoy a long and happy life.
Mabel said: “I give thanks for God’s blessing of good health.
“I am so thankful for each precious day. When I wake up in the morning I think it is a wonderful world.
“It is important to have positive thinking and to take each day at a time.
“My secret is that I have kind friends who help me so well. They take me shopping. It is so important to socialise.
“I have several social activities, and I go for physical exercise at Glebe House.
“It is important to cook proper meals and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.”
Mabel is deeply connected to the area.
“I have been in Ardglass for most of my life, since I was 11.”
She still holds the role as organist at the church, where she regularly continues to play in Mabel has devoted her life to her local parish of Ardglass and Dunsford.
Mabel is also a founder member of the Ardglass Women’s Institute.
As a member of the Women’s Guild, she served as treasurer for over 10 years.
Mabel attended primary school in Downpatrick.
After the family moved to Ardglass, she became the youngest pupil at the new Down High School, travelling there and back by train.
After completing her Senior examinations, she eventually went on to train as a teacher at Stranmillis College, which she loved.
She recalls the elegant royal blue blazer Stranmillis student teachers sported at that time!
She would go on to teach for over 40 years.
