Portsmouth birthday girl Joan Hellier celebrates turning 100 years old

Born on September 22, 1919, Joan, nee Dale, grew up with her two brothers Morris and Vernon and attended Walkers College in Southsea.

After she left school, she went to work for a removal company before she married carpenter Walter Hellier at just 19 years old on August 2, 1938, at Portsmouth Register Office.

A year later, the Helliers had their son Bill. Their daughter Wendy followed in 1945 and then their youngest son Derek in 1951. 

For all of her life, Joan has lived in Portsmouth or the surrounding areas. 

‘She’s never been further north than Horndean,’ laughs son Derek.

Today, great-grandmother Joan lives at Elm Trees Retirement Living, Havant, where she celebrated her 100th birthday. 

‘We also celebrated with a tea party at The Pavilion at Stansted House, Rowlands Castle, and most of the family came,’ adds Derek. 

‘I think her favourite part was seeing all the family together, because that doesn’t happen very often.’ 

‘She is a very independent woman. She played bowls up until a couple of years ago. 

‘I’m very proud she has reached such a great age.’