West Philadelphia Resident Celebrates 109th – Yes, 109th! – Birthday

Gertrude Johnson, a resident of Kearsley Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, celebrated her 109th – yes, 109th! – birthday in style at the West Philadelphia skilled nursing center. The semi-supercentenarian delighted in the music, festive decorations, flowers and cake in honor of her milestone birthday.

Johnson has resided at Kearsley since early 2022. “Everyone loves Gertrude!” said Dean McGroarty, assistant administrator. “She has always been a people person. It was our absolute pleasure to host this party for Gertrude and celebrate with Darlene, her daughter.”

Born on Oct. 1, 1916, Johnson spent her childhood and most of her adult years living in Washington, D.C. The mother of five, Johnson has a large family with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The semi-supercentenarian held numerous jobs throughout her life, including working as a military seamstress for the Quartermasters, repairing and altering uniforms. A Jehovah’s Witness, Johnson was very involved in the religious organization, singing in the choir and working in the church kitchen, as well as serving as an aide to leadership.

At Kearsley, Johnson frequently joins in music therapy, with a particular fondness for gospel, and enjoys bible readings as well as celebrating mass on Sundays. Through the years, her favorite hobbies have included music and dancing, and of course, socializing with family and friends.

Located at 2100 North 49th Street on the former estate of Dr. John Kearsley, Kearsley Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center provides post-hospital care, short-term rehab and long-term residential care. The facility maintains a Five-Star Quality Measures rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). More information on Kearsley can be found at kearsleyrehab.com.