On May 20, 2025, Shaa's Nan celebrated her 100th birthday.
She had lived through world wars, rations, the Blitz, and poverty. Even at 100, she remained the most generous person Shaa had ever known. She grew up in a time when women were seen but not heard. She was top of her class but left school at 14 because someone had to work while her brothers continued their education.
A Life of Service
Nan was never an industry titan, a famous influencer, or a millionaire. Yet she influenced more people than anyone Shaa knew. Her door had always been open. She spent most of her life on a council estate with a large garden, which she used to feed the children at the village school where she worked as a cook.
When the school budget did not allow for strawberries, she grew them herself. When pineapple was too costly for her upside-down cake, she bought it herself.
She lived a life of love and service. Children who had nothing always received big servings and seconds. She was the best Nan and Great-Nan anyone could ask for and she had been Shaa's closest friend.
The 100th Birthday Celebration
Her 100th birthday was celebrated with family and with many of Shaa's friends, who had come to see her as their Nan as well. She raised children who raised children who went on to build businesses and futures. That is her legacy.
View photos of Shaa's Nan:
100th Birthday Honoring Nan's at work |
Nan and Shaa's Photo
Built Over Decades, Not Posts
Shaa reflected that her Nan's truest influence had been built over decades, not (social media) posts. It was shown in the quiet ways she cared, the values she passed down, and the strength she showed when life tried to break her.
Her Nan is Shaa's heartbeat and North Star. Shaa raises a cup of tea and a slice of sponge cake to her irreplaceable, indomitable Nan. She represents everything good in life. She's the best there has ever been. ♥
