**Timeless Friendship: The Secrets of Two Centenarians**
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In an inspiring tale of lifelong companionship, two women who have recently celebrated their 109th birthdays are sharing their wisdom on longevity and happiness. Velma Long and Dorothy Boggess forged their bond during World War II while working as typists in the War Department, an experience that marked the beginning of an enduring friendship that has lasted for over eighty years.
Long and Boggess met in the early 1940s, during a period of significant change in the United States. According to reports from CBS News and The Washington Post, their involvement in the war effort not only provided them with a sense of purpose but also laid the foundation for a friendship that has flourished through decades. “It was very exciting,” Boggess remarked while reminiscing about their time together in Washington, D.C. “I didn’t know anyone at all when I first arrived.”
Their lives have been intricately intertwined ever since their initial meeting. Both women navigated the ups and downs of life side by side, experiencing the joys of double dates, marriages, and the challenges of raising families. Boggess fondly recalled how their husbands got along famously, leading to many shared adventures and travels. “My husband loved her husband,” she recalled, highlighting the close-knit nature of their families.
Amidst the backdrop of their long lives, the pair has faced the inevitable losses that come with age. “We’ve both lost so many close friends,” Boggess said, reflecting on the reality of their advancing years. Yet, despite the heartaches, the two women continue to thrive and support each other, embodying the resilience of human spirit.
When asked about the secrets to their longevity, Long emphasised the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. While the friends are somewhat reticent about divulging all their secrets, they credit regular exercise and a balanced diet as central components of their daily routines. “People want to know some of our secrets,” Long stated. However, she playfully insisted that not all their insights could be shared, hinting at an air of mystery around their remarkable wellbeing.
In addition to physical health, Long believes that kindness and compassion towards others are essential for finding joy in life. “Being kind to people is the ultimate secret to happiness,” she asserted, underscoring the value of nurturing positive relationships in one’s life.
Earlier this year, Boggess received notable recognition for her contributions to the community when she was honoured by the Ward 4 Senior Social Hub as a “deserving woman”. This accolade acknowledges her lifetime of service and dedication to those around her. Throughout her career, Boggess was celebrated not only for her work in the War Department but also for her role as a social worker and vocational rehabilitation counsellor until her retirement in 1976.
Boggess’s legacy includes an honorary doctoral degree from Kentucky State University and the distinction of being one of the original five African American “War Girls” in the 1940s. She was proud to marry George Boggess in 1942, and together they raised a son, Kenneth, and nurtured a family that includes a daughter-in-law and two grandchildren. Their marriage, lasting an impressive 74 years, was filled with travel and service to their community.
George Boggess lived to the age of 104, and his life with Dorothy was marked by devotion to family, faith, and shared experiences. In 2002, Boggess penned her memoir, *I Wish You Were Here*, which chronicles their travels and the adventures they shared, offering readers a glimpse into the depth of their relationship.
As Velma Long and Dorothy Boggess continue to celebrate milestones in their lives, their friendship stands as a testament to the joy of companionship and the secrets of living well. Their story inspires many, showcasing not just the significance of healthy habits, but also the profound impact of kindness and loving relationships in nurturing a fulfilling life.
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