5 November 2025
Friends and family surprise Mary Stockwell for her 102nd birthday at Priory Court
Mary Stockwell has lived at Priory Court in Bishop’s Waltham for almost 25 years
. She marked turning 102 with a surprise party organised by her friends and family.
Mary joined the RAF in 1942 during the height of the Second World War. She was initially based at Digby in Lincolnshire, the home of Royal Canadian Air Force squadrons, but was later posted to Derby.
It was in Derby that Mary married her first husband, who himself was in the Army. They were married for 28 years following a ceremony at Derby Cathedral in 1944 and spent time living in both Austria and Gibraltar.
Mary has three children and eight grandchildren.
Sam Jones, Manager at Priory Court, said:
Mary loves sharing her memories of the amazing life she has lived. It is a pleasure to have her with us at Priory Court.
When asked about the secret to reaching 102 years of age, Mary said:
Being happy and always seeing the funny side of life. I still do my housework and cook for myself. I think it’s good to keep your body moving.
