Rugeley woman celebrates 105th birthday after a lifetime of service and memories

Ivy Meenan, a resident of the Masonic Housing Association’s Wilson Keys Court in Rugeley, celebrated her remarkable 105th birthday on Monday (July 6). Not only is Ivy the oldest resident at Wilson Keys Court, but she was also the very first person to move in, taking up residency in July 1993 when the award-winning housing court first opened its doors.

Born in 1921 in Wolstanton, near Newcastle-under-Lyme, Ivy’s life has spanned over a century of extraordinary events. At the age of 20, she joined the Army’s Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) during the Second World War. Serving in Cornwall as a range finder with an anti-aircraft gun unit, she played a vital role in Britain’s defence. Speaking about her experiences, Ivy recalled, “They (the Germans) were trying to invade us and the little Spitfire went up and shot the bombers down, so Hitler had to change his mind.” Her work, alongside others, involved directing Spitfires to intercept enemy bombers, significantly contributing to the war effort.

In 1942, Ivy met her late husband Jonnie at a dance - she was both pleased and surprised when he asked her to dance. Jonnie later became a freemason, and the couple shared a long and happy marriage. Ivy attributes her longevity to this happiness, living a good life, and plenty of sleep.

Ivy’s birthday celebration was a joyous occasion attended by her son Peter, relatives, friends, and fellow residents of Wilson Keys Court. Special guests included RAF Cosford Chief of Staff Dave Kerrison, Flight Sergeant and freemason Shiv Chand, Provincial Grand Master Jeremy Roberts, and the Chairman of the house, Paramjit Ram. Ivy was presented with flowers from the RAF and a framed photograph of herself from her days in the ATS, the frame crafted from Perspex taken from a Spitfire fighter plane. Jeremy Roberts honoured her with a framed certificate commemorating her 62 years as a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland, which she joined on 1 July 1964.

Peter, Ivy’s son, expressed admiration for his mother’s amazing life, joking, “It’s strange to be nearly 80 years old and have a mother who still thinks you are an adolescent!” Residents and relatives described Ivy as “a joy to all who know her” and someone who “doesn’t realize how special she is and we love her to bits.”

Ivy feels fortunate to live at Wilson Keys Court, which won the Best Affordable Housing Enterprise for Staffordshire in both 2024 and 2025. These awards highlight the commitment of the Masonic Housing Association to providing excellent sheltered housing and care for people both with and without masonic connections, contributing to Ivy’s happiness and sense of community.