Jacksonville, Fla., Resident Emmett Walker Celebrates 101st Birthday

A family tradition is special, especially when it involves gathering together with loved ones and enjoying a favorite birthday cake made from a passed-through-the-generations recipe. Emmett Walker, a resident of Riverside Post Acute in Jacksonville who turned 101 this fall, was treated to exactly that kind of celebration.

The centenarian was surrounded by his wife of 71 years, Evelyn, along with nieces, nephews and staff of the skilled nursing center during the festivities. All delighted in the birthday cake baked by Walker’s niece, Arillella, this year.

“It was our true pleasure to host Emmett’s milestone birthday party and celebrate the happy day with his dear family,” said Riverside’s Pam Montemurno, regional director of market development. “Emmett and Evelyn are the sweetest pair – they still hold hands.”

Walker was born on Nov. 6, 1923, in Winter Garden. Ever-youthful looking, he tried to join the military when he was old enough, although the sergeant in charge refused to believe Walker’s age, telling him to “go home to your mom,” recalls the centenarian.

In 1941, Walker met his future wife when his mother introduced them. The inseparable couple owned Walkers Grocery Store for years. In his spare time, the centenarian often attended services at Bethel Baptist Church and also enjoyed shooting pool with friends.

Located at 1750 Stockton Street in Jacksonville, Riverside Post Acute (formerly St. Catherine Laboure Place) provides post-hospital care, short-term rehab and long-term residential care. More information can be found at riversiderehabhc.com.