A remarkable milestone was recently celebrated in Ronkonkoma, as Lake Ronkonkoma resident Mary Papilon marked her 109th birthday with immense joy and fanfare at Day Haven Adult Day Care. This extraordinary occasion brought together family, friends, and staff to honor a life richly lived, highlighting the enduring spirit and vibrant personality of one of Long Island’s most cherished centenarians.

Born in 1916, Mary Papilon’s longevity is a testament to a life filled with experiences spanning over a century. Currently residing at the Brookwood on the Lake Apartments for Seniors, her journey is a captivating narrative, embodying resilience and grace through changing times. Her celebration offered a poignant moment to reflect on her incredible life story and the advancements in adult care that support such milestones.

The birthday festivities, held on a Friday, were a heartwarming affair, filled with laughter and fond recollections. Among those celebrating was Regina Giglio, Papilon’s youngest child and only daughter, who expressed profound happiness at being able to partake in her mother’s momentous 109th birthday. The joyous atmosphere underscored the deep familial bonds and community support surrounding Mary.

Alyssa Peterson, the dedicated Site Supervisor at Day Haven Ronkonkoma, shared insights into Mary’s charming disposition. Peterson noted that while Papilon might have a slow start to her day, she invariably engages with everyone, always sharing a laugh and contributing to the cheerful environment. Such observations paint a vivid picture of Mary’s positive impact within the adult day care setting.

Day Haven Adult Day Services plays a crucial role in the community, providing essential daytime care for frail older adults, including individuals with Alzheimer’s or related dementia. As per their brochure, the facility is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its members, notably through an enriching intergenerational program where children from the adjacent HeadStart preschool interact with the elders, fostering unique connections.

Mary Papilon’s impressive age places her among the world’s oldest living individuals, coming within a few years of the current oldest known person, 115-year-old Ethel Caterham of the United Kingdom, as recognized by Guinness World Records. Her longevity resonates with the remarkable stories of other notable Long Island centenarians, such as Henrietta Dobin, who passed at 111 in September 2022, and Rose Girone, who died at 113 in February 2025.

This joyous occasion not only celebrated Mary Papilon’s personal milestone but also shone a light on the value of elder care services and the beauty of long lives lived fully. It serves as an inspiring reminder of the human spirit’s capacity for joy and connection, even at advanced ages, making her birthday a true community celebration.