In a delightful celebration of life, two cherished neighbors from Oxford, Josie Church and Anne Wallace-Hadrill, are joyfully preparing to mark their shared milestone of 101 years on April 1st. Born on the same day in 1924, these wonderful friends have lived side by side since the 1980s, forging a bond that has grown deeper through the years.

Reflecting on their journey, Josie shares, "Life has gone by so quickly," emphasizing the beauty of simply living in the moment. Together, they have embraced creativity and community service, particularly after the passing of their husbands, becoming true pillars of support for one another.

Both women have vibrant stories to tell. Anne, who studied English at St. Hilda’s College, served as a radio mechanic in the Women’s Royal Naval Service during World War II and later contributed to the Oxford English Dictionary as a lexicographer. Her dedication earned her a well-deserved medal from the Royal Navy last year, a proud recognition of her service.

Josie, with her background in nursing at Preston Royal Infirmary, recalls the early days of the National Health Service. Her experiences caring for patients during the war were challenging yet shaped her compassionate nature. After the war, she and her husband chose to settle in Oxford, where they encountered a unique blend of students, from older veterans to fresh-faced school leavers.

Though they cannot pinpoint the moment they discovered they share a birthday, both women fondly remember the wonderful celebration they had for their centennial milestone in 2024.

Living on a vibrant road filled with camaraderie, Josie describes their neighborhood as one big, extended family. “Everybody knows everybody else,” she says with warmth. “If you have a problem, you just give a shout and someone will come. We are truly fortunate.”

When asked for their secrets to a long and fulfilling life, Josie offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: "Just live." She believes in embracing whatever life presents and moving gracefully from one experience to the next, highlighting the organic flow of life that has guided them both.

As they prepare for this special birthday, Josie and Anne embody the joy of friendship, resilience, and the richness of a life well-lived. Their story serves as a beautiful reminder of the bonds we create and the happiness that comes from simply being present in each day.