October 21, 2015 (Mt. Airy, NC) ─ Annie Riggs has seen a lot of changes since she was born over 101 years ago! A Mt. Airy native, she’s watched her surroundings change as old buildings are torn down to make room for new and the advancement of technology, which she said has been a blessing and which has also presented new challenges.

“These days, it’s harder to get a job than when I was growing up,” she said. “A lot more schooling is required to get a good job.”

A resident of Twelve Oaks, a DePaul Senior Living Community in Mt. Airy, Annie Riggs celebrated her 101st birthday on September 30. Following high school, Riggs worked at Spencer Textiles. She married Roy Riggs in 1940.

The couple had one daughter, Carol Anne, who passed away at birth and were married 56 years before Roy passed away in 1996. Riggs said her advice to younger generations is to do the right thing, be kind and help others.

“I wouldn’t change how or when I grew up for anything,” she said. “It may have been harder, but I feel blessed to have had that opportunity.”

Riggs’ hobbies include knitting, crocheting, sewing and embroidery. Her biggest regret is having never learned to drive. She received gifts, cards and a bouquet of flowers as part of her birthday celebration.

“Annie is very outgoing,” said Activities Director Anna Burford. “She always puts a smile on everyone’s face as she is always so happy!”

For more information about Twelve Oaks, please contact Administrator Penny Haynes at (336) 786-1130 or visit us on Facebook.