Family of Woman Who Lived to Be 106 Shares What They Believe Was the Secret to Her Remarkably Long Life

**Las Vegas Woman Celebrates an Extraordinary Life, Passing Away at 106**

Manuela “Dolly” Diaz, a celebrated Las Vegas resident, passed away on August 18 at the age of 106 due to complications from pneumonia. Her family attributes her exceptional longevity to a profound love for life, a philosophy that guided her through her remarkable journey.

Born on June 16, 1920, on the Fort Yuma-Quechan Reservation in Arizona, Diaz’s early years were marked by transition as her family moved to Nevada shortly after her birth. This change followed her father’s employment at a mining operation in Tonopah. Diaz later married Marcos Medina, a military personnel, in 1941, and together they raised five children.

Following the death of her husband in 1970, Diaz developed strong connections with the military community. Her involvement included serving as president of a local Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary post in Las Vegas. She also worked at a cafeteria-style restaurant at Nellis Air Force Base, a role she maintained until her retirement in the 1990s.

Despite life’s challenges, Diaz’s zest for existence never waned. Her granddaughters, Tracy Bias and Carleena Shumway, fondly remembered her energetic spirit during family gatherings, particularly her love for dancing. Bias recounted nights where Diaz would hit the dance floor at 11 p.m., joyfully continuing until dawn. “We would get out at 8 o’clock in the morning and go to eat breakfast after she danced,” Bias said, highlighting her enduring vitality.

Adding to her vibrant character was Diaz’s playful nature. Her granddaughters recall how she would drive around with a CB radio, playfully bantering with truck drivers. Shumway noted that while Diaz attempted to embarrass her and her friends by arriving at school with loud music, they actually found it entertaining.

At home, Diaz’s warmth was reflected in her culinary skills. She enjoyed preparing meals from scratch, making tortillas, and even squeezing fresh orange juice. Shumway described times spent together in quiet companionship as they shared evenings in her home. “I’d sit next to her in the little double recliners, holding hands as we watched TV or listened to music,” she reminisced, pointing out that Diaz had a particular affection for Freddy Fender’s music.

Throughout her life, Diaz embraced travel, visiting various countries well into her 90s. Her family shared that her adventures included trips to Ireland, Spain, Italy, and Africa, showcasing her enduring curiosity and desire to explore the world.

While the loss of her grandmother is profoundly felt, Shumway preferred to celebrate the life Diaz led rather than mourn her passing. “It’s not a sad ending,” she said. “It’s just that her physical presence won’t be there.” This sentiment encapsulates the family’s outlook on Diaz’s life, which was filled with love, joy, and unforgettable memories.

Dolly Diaz’s legacy will resonate with those who knew her, continuing to inspire others to cherish the simple joys of life and approach each day with enthusiasm.