Vavenby resident Mary Johnson celebrated her 85th birthday on July 4. She has been ill for some time and not up to going out so Fay Jones, who helps Johnson out in her home, organized a surprise birthday party for her to be held on her deck.
It was a beautiful day and nine friends stayed from for the full two hours. Others dropped in for a short while to say hello and wish her a happy birthday. It was a tea party with guests supplying the ample finger food and Jones baking the delicious birthday cake. Johnson was very surprised by the party for her. She said, "It was the last thing I expected."
Johnson was born and raised in New Westminster. She had only one sister who died at 48 due to cancer. Johnson moved to Blue River where she met her husband, Villy Johnson. They moved to Vavenby in 1978 where Mary has been an active member in the community until she became ill. Her friends are hoping she will soon feel well enough to take part in the varied organizations she enjoyed.
Happy birthday, Mary, from all your friends and may this year be a healthier one.