Sally Bradley celebrated her 106th birthday last Thursday with family and her fellow residents at the Zionsville Meadows, Senior Health facility in Zionsville.
She was born Sally D. Aprilene Reeves on April 4, 1907. While a Kentucky native and a Kentucky University graduate, she has resided in Indianapolis for more than 60 years.
She was married and had no children of her own but helped to raise her sister’s five young children after her sister’s death. She also fostered a special needs child whom she raised as her own. She was a member of the 25th Street Baptist Church and worked at the Postal Office. After she retired from there, she began substitute teaching for the Indianapolis Public Schools.
Celebrating with Bradley were her younger peers, staff and care givers. There were balloons, birthday cakes, live entertainment and dancing as part of the festivities.
Bradley’s nurse manager, Chris Taylor, and restorative aid CNA, Shalena Lightfoot, have been working with Bradley, collectively, for the past eight years.
“Miss Sally is always happy and just laughs all of the time,” Lightfoot said. “She’s always at peace and for her, everyday is new and a good day.”
Bradley’s great-niece, Ida Bosman, was also in attendance to honor her great-aunt.
“Sally was independent and very active until she fell and fractured her hip at age 96. After a second fall, we made the decision for her to come live here,” Bosman said. “She was very active in her community and family. She has always been a pleasant person.”
Bradley has enjoyed fishing, gardening, cooking and attending Pacers basketball games. She likes to participate in the daily events that are offered at Zionsville Meadows.