Dozens Gather For 101st Birthday Of New Horizons' Oldest Resident

WOBURN, MA — Dozens gathered Friday for the 101st birthday of New Horizons at Choate's oldest resident, Lillian Braudis.

The festivities included a car parade in Braudis' honor and a visit from Mayor Scott Galvin.

“The mayor came to see me,” said Braudis. “I really feel like a big shot now.”

Braudis has lived at New Horizons for two years.

She "is known throughout the independent and assisted living community for her fierce independence, quick wit, and unfailing optimism," according to Christine Coakley, New Horizons’ executive director.

“It’s been such a joy to have Lillian in our community,” said Coakley. “We were delighted, but not at all surprised, that so many people came out to recognize her on this milestone day.”

Bruadis is from Mission Hill and worked for MetLife, B&M Railroad, Blue Cross, and Harvard Business School. She founded the Harvard Business School Retirees Association.

She has three children and four grandchildren.

"I'm so appreciative of all the thought and effort that went into making Mom’s day special," her daughter Anne Braudis said. "Mom was thrilled! Coming from the Great Depression generation, it was really something for her to be the center of attention."

All residents and most staff at New Horizons are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, the facility said. In widespread testing in March, all 160 tests came back negative.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.