Burlington Co. Woman Celebrates Her 107th Birthday

PALMYRA, NJ — A Burlington County woman born during World War I and a decade before the invention of sliced bread celebrated her birthday last week.

Celesta DiLeonardo turned 107 on May 21, when a group of well-wishers celebrated the occasion with her at her Palmyra home.

During her birthday, County Commissioner Randy Brolo announced a proclamation in DiLeonardo's honor. Brolo also presented her with a card, flowers, balloons and her favorite lunch from the county's Meals on Wheels program.

"Celesta is believed to be our county's oldest living resident, and we are excited to help celebrate her remarkable life with her family, friends and neighbors," Brolo said.

DiLeonardo was born in South Philadelphia and lived in the city before moving to Palmyra, where she and her late husband raised three children. She worked for the Home Lite Company in Philadelphia for more than 20 years and is a lifelong avid dancer.

The centenarian credits her long life to the joys of good Italian food, dancing creativity, and the love of family and friends.

Her birthday attendees included county officials, Palmyra's mayor and council president, and members of the borough's police and fire departments, among others.

DiLeonardo is one of more than 500 residents regularly receiving meals from the county's Meals on Wheels program, which serves homebound residents 60 and older. County residents seeking more information on the program can call 609-265-5069.