It’s always a cause for celebration when someone hits the big 100 at the Residence at Cedar Dell. However, two residents have passed 100 and are still going strong.

The residents gathered together on Friday, March 4 to celebrate the birthdays of Adele “Del” Boudria, 103, and Toni Boyd, 105. Boudria turned 103 on Monday while Boyd turned 105 on Friday.

Boudria, one of six children, was born in Fall River and worked much of her life as a stitcher in the factory industry while her husband worked in the mills. She worked as a stitcher for many years until she decided to leave work to raise a family. She had a daughter named Yvette, who she raised after the death of her husband in the early ‘60s.

Several generations of Boudria’s family were present for the celebration, including her granddaughter Michelle Nicolai, great-granddaughter Felicia Carreiro and great-great-granddaughters Autumn and Maggie.

Even at 103, Boudria is still “feisty” and “does everything for herself,” Nicolai said. “She’s very caring.”

Boyd hails from Waterville, Maine where she lived most of her life before moving with her husband, whose job in the mills took him all over New England. She lived in Dartmouth, Fall River and Connecticut.

Boyd didn’t enjoy how much her husband’s work uprooted their lives, though Boyd also worked as a stitcher to support their daughter, Alison. Eight years ago, she finally settled down in Dartmouth.

As a longtime resident of Cedar Dell, Boyd has seen a lot of changes from the days where they had only two walkers to split between all the residents.

Boyd, the “matriarch” of Cedar Dell, loves the home she’s made for herself there.

“They’re all so nice,” Boyd said.

Active at 105, Boyd rides the bike every day and takes the stairs whenever possible. One of her favorite pastimes includes playing the slots at Newport Grand, said Resident Engagement Director Jennifer Gelinas.

Boyd is already excited about going back.

“She’s an inspiration,” Gelinas said.

The two were gifted with flowers, cake and a framed photo for each. Boudria was given a photo with her sister, who passed away last week, and Boyd was given a photo taken at the last visit to Newport Grand.

“When are we going back?” Boyd said.

Residents serenaded the birthday girls with a lively rendition of "Happy Birthday" before the festivities moved to the dining area for birthday cake and more celebration.

As for the secret to living a long life, Boudria and Boyd had no tips to give.

“Just live it day by day,” Boudria said.

Boyd says the keep to happiness lies with marriage. “As long as you get along,” she quipped.