Edelweiss Village Resident Alice Gillis Turns 103!

On April 2, this amazing woman turned 103. “I’ve lived a very good life,” said Allice with a smile. “Time goes by so quickly. Actually, it’s hard for me to believe that I’m now the matriarch of our family.”

And what a family it is. By her best guess, Alice’s extended family includes 13 nieces and nephews, 25 grandnieces and nephews, 25 great-grandnieces and nephews and one great-great-grandnephew. Her oldest nephew is 89! Family pictures are displayed all over Alice’s apartment at Edelweiss Village, as well as cards and letters from family members. Undoubtedly, longevity runs in Alice’s family. Her sister lived a month shy of her 106th birthday and her parents lived to 89 and 90. Alice was extremely close to her family. In fact, she and her sister Dorothy lived together for 94 years. “How many people can say that?” wondered Allice.

Born in Boston in 1918, Allice was the eighth child in a family of ten. It was a busy household indeed. The family moved to Jamaica Plain, and then to Dedham, where Alice lived in the same house on Pleasant Street for 69 years. “I treasured living in Dedham,” said Alice.

Alice worked as an Administrative Assistant at Boston City Hospital (now Boston Medical Center) for 33 years in the Department of Anesthesia. She loved it. At that time, the staff and doctors were both located on the operating floor. Residents in training from all over the world practiced at the prestigious hospital. “I worked with two of the nicest Chief of Staffs in the world,” said Alice. “When they left, I knew it was time for me to leave as well.”

But instead of retiring to a life of leisure, Alice joined several senior groups in the Dedham area and orchestrated trips. Alice had always enjoyed travel, visiting such places as Europe, Australia, the Caribbean and many states in the US, including Hawaii, so this was a natural transition. Her senior groups visited Florida and California; Alice was in charge upward of 80 passengers at a time. Always on-the-go, Alice lived independently until two years ago, driving until she was 99. “I loved to drive,” exclaimed Alice.

In terms of her thoughts about the pandemic, Alice was quick to point out that this is not her first go-around with a global crisis. “I survived the Spanish flu, World War I, World War II, the Great Depression, the Korean, Vietnam and Iraq wars.” Added Alice, “We will survive COVID-19.”

Today, Alice keeps in touch with friends and family members through the marvel of technology. She is very computer literate thanks to her niece, Kathleen, who lives in Florida. Her communication gadgets include an Amazon reader, iPhone and iPad. She frequently texts, emails, and uses FaceTime. Recently, Alice underwent her yearly physical with her doctor via Zoom. Alice survived bladder cancer 16 years ago and broke her hip at age 100, but these days she appears to be in excellent health.

Staying active is a way of life for Alice. “In my younger days, I swam and played ball,” said Alice. “I was very athletic. My brothers used to tease me because I never walked everywhere –I ran!” Eating whatever she wants has also been her motto. “I’m lucky that I never had to watch my weight,” said Alice. “And I totally agree with my sister’s diet philosophy. She was always fond of saying: “Sweets are a preservative.”

On her 100th birthday, Alice’s family planned a huge party at Lake Pearl Wrentham. Families and friends came from all over the country. Alice’s favorite part: “The buffet! It’s just fabulous,” exclaims Alice. As an afterthought she added, “I think they should give me a free meal for this publicity!”

At Edelweiss Village, Alice is adored by residents and staff alike. She keeps busy with card games, word games and exercise classes. She loves Wheel of Fortune and, most especially, the many holiday celebrations. “The staff here does a wonderful job of making every holiday feel special. They are really lovely. No matter what you ask—they do everything they can to make the residents happy.”

“Alice is a pleasure to be around,” said Kathy Labbe, Executive Director of Edelweiss Village. “She’s always sporting a smile, and her laughter is a joy to hear. Truly, she is a role model for us all.” Kathy also commented upon Alice’s savvy computer skills. “She is the first resident who has ever requested information about our WIFI,” said Kathy. “I actually think she can teach me a few things!”

When asked how she felt about turning 103, Alice was quick to respond. “I feel the same as I did when I turned 102,” she said with a laugh. “Anything over 100 is a bonus!”

About Deutsches Altenheim

Established in 1914, Deutsches Altenheim was originally designed to serve as a retirement residence for elderly German Americans. As Deutsches Altenheim expanded and flourished, the organization became a centerpiece in the Greater Boston community. Today the nonprofit, with a consistent 5-Star rating, continues to offer superior care in a trusting and experienced environment. Its campus in West Roxbury provides long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, memory care, assisted living, and adult day health services to residents and clients of all ethnic, national, and religious backgrounds.