Ramona Woman Celebrates 100th Birthday
By Johnny McDonald

Centenarian Pearl Ruick with her family at her 100th birthday celebration. Photo by Tom Parham

There was a grand centennial celebration in Ramona last February. And, it all centered around Pearl Ruick.

You see Pearl had reached the age of 100 on Feb. 26 and it was time for the senior center citizens to salute such an accomplishment.

The secret of her longevity? "My doctors told me it was probably because I didn't smoke or drink. Other than that, I don't know," she said with a laugh.

There were two parties at the center and one at her grandson's home in San Diego Country Estates where 51 family members gathered. Most of them live in Nevada.

She has one daughter and three sons, all in their 70s. The oldest, 78, lives in San Diego and serves seniors by driving a Meals on Wheels truck.

"I've outlived two husbands, brothers and sisters, all younger than me," she said. "The first husband died in 1944 and the second in 1978. My first husband was the father of my children."

According to Pearl, the oldest any member of her family had lived was her grandmother, who passed away at 81.

Pearl lives with her grandson James Jeffries and his wife in the Estates.

"I was in my 90s when I came here (Ramona) to live," she said. "My son in Las Vegas, recommended moving here."

When asked about any hobbies, she replied with a smile, "Not at my age."