Thursday, October 1, 2026
The Sandel Center in Rockville Centre hosted its monthly birthday celebration — but this one came with an extra special milestone. Joan Ward, a longtime Rockville Centre resident and beloved Sandel Center member, was honored for turning 100 years old.
Members of the center, local officials and Ward’s loved ones gathered for a birthday brunch on Oct. 10, with speeches and memories shared to mark the occasion.
“Today we celebrate an extraordinary milestone, 100 years of life, love and wisdom. Joan, your journey inspires us all and reminds us how truly special our Centennials are to the Sandel Center family and the Rockville Centre community,” Nancy Codispoti, Director of Senior Services, said. “We honor your strength, spirit and the joy you bring to our community each and every day, and to all of you here today celebrating our October birthdays, may you find peace and joy today and forever you have lived a life well lived. Let’s continue to celebrate our beloved members and family and friends.”
Mayor Francis X. Murray attended the celebration, along with other village leaders. Trustee Gregory P. Shaughnessy presented Ward with a proclamation from the village, reading it aloud to guests.
“The Village of Rockville Centre is proud to recognize and celebrate the remarkable milestone of Joan Ward, who marks her 100th birthday on October 6, 2025,” he said. “Joan Ward was born in Ridgewood Queens in 1925 and after marrying James Ward made Rockville Centre her home, where together they raised four wonderful children. Joan’s life has been filled with love, family and community, and she is the proud grandmother of 12 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.”
“Joan joined the Sandel center at the age of 90, where she has become a cherished member and a dear friend to many, crediting her long and happy life to friendships she made here, And she always says to never skip dessert,” he continued. “Joan’s 100 years are a testament to a life well lived and filled with kindness, laughter and devotion to family, friends and community. The Village of Rockville Centre hereby extends its best wishes to Joan on her 100th birthday with sincere congratulations for many more happy, productive years on this day.”
Ward followed with a few words of gratitude.
“I really appreciate everything you said,” she said, “It’s quite a shock to me that I lived to 100, but here I am. I’m most excited for the fact that I’m still alive and I got a big family, and they were all coming this weekend to celebrate all 17 of my greats. I’m very lucky to begin with to even make it this far.”
Lunch was served after the speeches, provided generously by Ward. Entertainment followed, with other October birthday celebrants taking part in the festivities.
Each month, Sandel Center members often contribute donations or food to mark their birthdays. The center offers a variety of programs, including seasonal activities like Halloween parties, pumpkin painting and wreath making. It also organizes group trips throughout the year.
Ward remains an active member, volunteering every Tuesday to help sign in attendees and manage activity signups.
To learn more about the Sandel Center, visit RVCNY.gov/Senior-Services.
