Freda’s 100th

Five generations of family members gathered at Glebe House Residential Care Home in Hollesley to celebrate the centenary of great-great-grandmother Freda Baker.

Freda moved into Glebe House, a 20-bed residential care home, in 2020 when she was no longer able to look after herself independently. The team at the care home organised a family party for Freda, held in the gazebo at Glebe House, where her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren joined in the celebrations.

“It was lovely to see my family and friends gathered together, especially the little ones. I really enjoyed all the attention,”

When asked her secret to a long and happy life, Freda replied, “Being friendly and getting along with people.”

Organised Celebrations and Fond Memories

Jane Barlow, activities coordinator at the care home, remarked, “Freda is a lovely lady, and we are thrilled to be able to contribute to making her special birthday an occasion to remember.”

The care home chef baked a special birthday cake, and the gazebo was decorated with balloons, banners, and flowers for the occasion.

Freda’s Life and Legacy

Freda was born in Alderton in 1924, the eldest of four daughters. Following her father’s passing, young Freda took on a caring role for her siblings. At 18, she married Reg during World War II, and they had four children together: Joan, Robert, Leslie, and Stephen.

Throughout the war, Freda worked in an ammunitions factory, and later served as a housekeeper at Wood Hall, where Reg worked as a chauffeur.

Her youngest child, Stephen, shared: “Mum was a hard worker; she worked in a local shop and helped with harvest, often with me next to her in my pram or strapped to her back!”

Freda was a skilled seamstress and hairdresser, known to her community. A founder member of the Hollesley WI, she often baked and served at local events. She continued riding her bike around the village into her 90s.

A Life Filled with Family Joy

Hazel, Freda’s daughter-in-law, added, “Being a nanny to her six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren has brought Mum so much joy. To be celebrating 100 years of this wonderful lady is an absolute privilege!”