Annie-May - most definitely a life well-lived!

Annie-May McGuinness celebrated her 104th birthday recently.

Annie-May has lived through more than a century of history, laughter, and love - with a quiet strength and a sharp sense of humour that has never left her side.

One of ten children, Annie-May grew up in a bustling, lively household with five sisters and four brothers.

Today, just one beloved sister remains, aged 90, a living link to those early days.

Annie-May was determined to make a difference.

In the 1930s, she joined the nursing services, caring for others during some of the most challenging times our world has ever seen.

She also played her part on the home front, helping to make barrage balloons that protected British cities during the war - a quiet but vital act of service.

Nursing would become her life’s work.

Annie-May tended to the sick and vulnerable until her retirement.

She raised three children - Barry, Brenda, and Beryl - with that same steadfast love and patience.

Her family was, and still is, her pride and joy.

Even in retirement, she was never one to sit still.

Annie-May had a passion for car boot sales on Sunday mornings, getting her hands dirty in the garden, and dancing at every opportunity.

Until just two years ago, Annie-May lived independently at home with her daughter.

She then moved to Brierfields in Failsworth, where she quickly became the heart of the place.

She still knits faster than most people can type, takes part in arts and crafts, and on a sunny day, she can be found in her favourite chair, catching a cheeky nap in the sun.

But don’t be fooled - Annie-May’s not slowing down.

She’s still tidying up after everyone, fussing in the best way, and when the music starts, she’ll be the first on the dance floor with her walking frame.

To know Annie-May is to love her.

Her life is a testament to kindness, resilience, and fun.

She’s a nurse, a mother, a sister, a dancer - and a woman who proves that growing older doesn’t mean growing dull.

So here’s to Annie-May - 104 years young, still knitting, still dancing, and still enjoying the occasional glass of wine. 

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