Alexandria, VA – In collaboration with the Successful Aging Committee, the City of Alexandria hosted a special ceremony on September 10th at City Hall at 301 King Street to celebrate National Centenarian Day. The event honored residents who have reached the remarkable milestone of 100 years or more, recognizing their rich histories and contributions to the community.
The ceremony began at 5:00 p.m. with a musical performance by the Alexandria Citizens Band, which filled the historic City Hall with melodies reminiscent of the past century. At 5:15 p.m., Mayor Justin Wilson delivered remarks, presenting certificates to each centenarian. The mayor thanked the City’s Successful Aging Committee for supporting Alexandrians as they age. He recalled that only recently, we celebrated Alexandria’s 275th birthday and that these centenarians have been here for over a third of the city’s existence, experiencing a broad sweep of its history.
Among the distinguished guests was Florence Katz, who turned 100 this year. Katz, an active and vibrant community member, spent her career as an executive secretary and federal employee in public health. She fondly recalls living in Hawaii while studying for her master’s degree, and even at 100, she remains active, enjoying dance, Tai Chi, and painting. Her secret to longevity? Staying active and indulging in a piece of dark chocolate every morning.
Another honoree, Lois Madoline Cross Brooks, celebrated her 100th birthday this year. Born in 1924, Brooks is the last surviving sibling of nine and has one son, two grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. After building a career at the Marine Corps Headquarters, she transitioned to offering in-home childcare services. Today, Brooks continues to work for her granddaughter’s firm, Business Management Associates, and enjoys traveling, reading, and staying engaged in politics. Her daily indulgence? A Krispy Kreme raspberry-filled jelly doughnut.
At 102 years old, Walter A. Hammersley was also recognized for his contributions. Born in 1921, Hammersley served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and later built a successful career as an investment banker. He attributes his longevity to a positive attitude, good nutrition—although he admits to indulging in a daily Coca-Cola and Chick-fil-A milkshake—and the love of his family.
Also honored was Charles F. Funderburk, who turned 101 this year. Funderburk, originally from Monroe, North Carolina, joined the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) under Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal program before serving as a steward and museum technician at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate for over 50 years. He and his late wife Pearly were married for 76 years, and Funderburk takes great pride in his four children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
These centenarians were born during a transformative era in Alexandria’s history. The early 1920s were a time of rapid change in the city, with the growth of industries and the expansion of infrastructure. In 1923 and 1924, Alexandria, like much of the nation, was grappling with the aftermath of World War I while simultaneously embracing new technologies like the automobile, which revolutionized daily life.
The local community was also experiencing a cultural shift as the city moved towards modernization, with the opening of schools and businesses that would shape its future. The individuals honored at the ceremony have witnessed—and, in many cases, contributed to—these remarkable changes.
The evening concluded with a final performance by the Alexandria Citizens Band, a fitting end to a celebration of those who have lived through and shaped Alexandria’s rich history. The event not only honored the city’s oldest residents but also brought the community together to reflect on the lasting impact of these centenarians. Their stories serve as living links to the past, offering invaluable wisdom and experiences that continue to shape Alexandria’s future.
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