La Posada Resident Esther Whitley Celebrates 109th Birthday as Palm Beach County's Oldest Known Resident

La Posada Senior Living community celebrated resident Esther Whitley's 109th birthday, making her the oldest known resident in Palm Beach County. Born in 1916 in Lake View, South Carolina, then known as Pages Mill after her family, Whitley has lived a life rooted in family and community values learned from growing up on a 500-acre farm. Her lineage traces back to John Page, who emigrated from England in the late 1600s.

Whitley married Thomas E. Meyers in 1937, and his naval career took them from Charleston to New York and later Washington, D.C. Following Thomas's passing in 1973, she eventually moved to Florida, remarried, and joined the La Posada community. She raised two sons, Thomas and Richard, and one daughter, Rita, and is the proud grandmother of four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Known for her warm smile, quick wit, and unwavering optimism, Whitley continues to inspire those around her with her grace and joy for life. I'm so thankful to see 109, said Whitley. Every day is a blessing, and I'm grateful to be surrounded by so many kind people who make life so special. Life has taught me many valuable lessons—one being the importance of community—and that's exactly what I experience here at La Posada.

The celebration included a special visit from the Palm Beach Gardens Fire Department, which presented Whitley with 109 roses in recognition of her remarkable longevity. The La Posada Life Enrichment team organized the event as part of the community's commitment to honoring residents' stories and life journeys. Esther is an inspiration to all of us at La Posada, said Brad Cadiere, Executive Director at La Posada. We're so honored to celebrate this incredible milestone with her and her family. She has been part of our community for 22 years and each year we're blessed to celebrate her life and spirit.

Research from the National Institute on Aging supports the importance of social engagement for older adults, showing that those who maintain strong community connections tend to live longer, healthier lives. La Posada fosters this sense of belonging through resident-led programs, events, and daily activities that encourage connection and purpose. For more information about the community, visit https://mylaposada.com/.