DIAS CREEK — Hilda Pike of this community turned 100 on Nov. 30.
On that day, her family surrounded her, including son, Kenneth, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The celebration was held throughout the afternoon, then continued with a dinner at Dias Creek United Methodist Church, where she has been a member for 40 years.
First District legislators, Sen. Jeff Van Drew, and Assemblymen Nelson Albano and Matthew Milam (all D) attended and presented a certificate.
The centenarian was also honored with a letter from President George W. Bush and U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-2nd).
Pike is also the oldest active member of the local AARP chapter, which also hosted a birthday bash for her at the Nov. 12 meeting. She has been active in the chapter since 1973.
Pike has many friends. Her family attributes her longevity to “her sweet and peaceful disposition. She never gets angry or fearful. She thanks the Lord every day for taking such good care of her,” said her son.
She loved to sit on her back porch and do needle point.
She enjoys making “Jesus” signs and “Cross in the Pocket” and picture frames with Bible verses, and sends them all over the world, including to the troops stationed in Iraq.
Pike enjoys feeding and watching birds, her favorite being the cardinal.
