Celebrations of a centenarian

Born on her father’s farm at Ballysallagh, Dromore, Elizabeth then married Charles Thompson in 1940 and went to live on a farm on Greenogue Road, on the other side of Dromore. She later moved to Hillsborough for a time.

She now lives with her daughter and son–in-law near the village of Moy, Co Tyrone.

Grateful for her good health, Elizabeth said: “I don’t feel 100 at all, I just feel about 60 - and I don’t want to feel 100 either - I have good health and can get around myself and that means a lot.”

Enjoying the celebrations, Elizabeth received 82 cards.

“Everybody has been wonderful,” said Elizabeth.

“My friends have been so good and I’ve received mountains of cards and many floral gifts.

“So many people have remembered me, and the church, the Rev Keith Duddy and my district elder, Prof Gamble have all been very kind.

“It was lovely to have a visit from them and also from the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, his wife and also the Mayor of Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council.

“I’ve had a couple of very good parties to celebrate.”

Following the royal tradition, among Elizabeth’s cards is the telegram from the Queen expressing her congratulations on the momentous milestone.

For Elizabeth, 1st Dromore Presbyterian has always been an important part of her life, attending Sunday School there as a child and staying within the congregation in the following years.

“First Dromore Presbyterian was always my church. I was brought up in it and never changed,” said Elizabeth.

Elizabeth celebrated her 100th birthday at Culkeeran Cottage, Moy Road, Dungannon.