Centenarian: Velma Jennings

Velma Jennings

Salem, Ore.

Velma “Gonna” Irene Jennings is celebrating her 100th birthday today. She was born Jan. 28, 2007, in Oakesdale, Wash. She lived in Spangle most of her life, until she moved to Salem, Ore., in 2005.

Jennings met her husband, Norton Jennings, in Spangle when she was a schoolteacher. They were married in 1929. He died in 1986.

Jennings was a clerk and postmaster for 30 years at the Spangle Post Office. But, she says her most rewarding life achievement is her family.

She attributes her long and healthy life to believing in doing one’s best, keep going and not worrying.

When asked what her most memorable moment in her 100 years was, Jennings listed graduating from college.

Jennings has two daughters, Marilyn Kennedy of Salem and Barbara Dodson of Spokane. She also has eight grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great-grandchildren.