2014 Emily Rhyne – “Living 101” These photographs are copyright Emily Rhyne and are used here by permission. They may not be used elsewhere without her permission. “When I get up in the morning, I thank God for the day,” Alma Montgomery says. “And then I get up and use it.” A consistent routine, positive attitude and deep-rooted faith: Alma says these are the secrets to living to age 101. Alma is the oldest resident at the Roosevelt House, a retirement community in Owensboro, Ky. Some call her the “queen.” Others call her “Aunt Alma.” After more than three decades as a resident there, her vibrant personality has left quite the impression on people. Hettie Crask (left) is Alma’s best friend at the Roosevelt House. The two do everything together, from potlucks to Thursday morning hair appointments. Alma is very much alive. She enjoys doing almost all of the same things she has done her whole life, including putting on her favorite lipstick before get togethers with friends. Alma says that getting old can be lonely sometimes, but she tries to keep herself busy. Alma lives in a single apartment in the Roosevelt house but has family in the area. Alma (left) shares a special relationship with her caregiver, Charlotte Carpenter. Alma herself was a nurse’s assistant starting at age 17 until she retired at age 62. Her desire to serve is something that has remained constant through her life. Alma has weathered changes in the Owensboro community and her own life. Through the years, however, her Catholic faith has remained strong. “I tried to live a Christian life. I think positive. I’m doing ok,” Alma says. “I just love people. I love everybody.” Everyday, Alma walks 16 laps –– a one-mile trek –– through the halls of Owensboro’s Roosevelt House. When asked about the next chapter of her life, she says with a smile, “Well, I guess I’ll just keep going.”
