GALLERY: Farewell for Florence ahead of big birthday
PROBUS members celebrated a long-time member over morning tea at Bryson's Place yesterday morning.
At 98, Florence Slattery is still going strong, but decided to officially retire from the Rose City Warwick Probus Club ahead of her 99th birthday on June 22.
The retired teacher first moved to Warwick in 1941, and joined the club when it formed in 2012.
"I've been a member for a long time," Mrs Slattery said.
"We've had wonderful presidents," she said.
"The company and friendship of the group is wonderful, and they've been marvellous to me.
"I love it terribly and I'm sorry I can't keep going with it any longer."
Mrs Slattery was honoured for her dedication to the club and was presented with a loyalty badge and honorary membership by club president, Don McKechnie, in her retirement.
"She's been so loyal to the club and we all appreciate the loyalty she's given," Mr McKechnie said.
"She's come along to so many meetings, and is always immaculately dressed."
Ever so humble, Mrs Slattery was surprised to find the event had been planned to celebrate her birthday and her service to the club.
"I've made some wonderful friends and they've made me feel so welcome," Mrs Slattery said.
"They've sprung this surprise on me - Neil and Margaret (McKinnon) were the one's who rang me to make the arrangements and then I found out they were putting on this big morning tea for me."
Speaking to her friends Mrs Slattery said she appreciated the company of her fellow Probus club members over the years.
"I will miss it terribly - I used to look forward to going to meetings very much," she said.
"I just love them all and I wish them all the very best."
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