A Century of Grace Celebrating Jerry Carroll’s 100 Remarkable Years

A Century of Grace

Celebrating Jerry Carroll’s 100 Remarkable Years

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

What does a 100th birthday really mean? I guess that would depend a lot on the centenarians that you asked. Generally speaking, most are blessed to have reached this magical number. Reaching the century mark is more than just a milestone — it’s a testament to endurance, faith, and the quiet power of a life well-lived. Turning 100 is the benchmark for an elite club of senior citizens known as the centenarians. They usually receive extra attention from their family, friends, and even local media. But for Ercel “Jerry” Carroll, who celebrates his 100th birthday this November, this moment is about much more than recognition. It’s about gratitude, legacy, and love.

Reaching your 100th birthday is like breaking a sports record that has stood for decades. And although more seniors are passing this mark, it is still a remarkable feat in life, and you should be very happy and proud that you made it. Jerry has indeed earned his place among this rare and admirable group — and his journey to this point tells a story as rich as a century itself.

One of the first things that makes Jerry stand out among his peers is that he has not one, but two birthdays. His niece, Tiffany Wilburn-Meek, explains, “His mom (whom we assume was correct) said his birthday was 11/10/25 but it was recorded with the state as 11/25/25 so he uses this date for legal purposes.”

That means Jerry gets to enjoy double the celebration each November — a fitting twist for a man whose life has been filled with generosity, faith, and family. Jerry is easygoing, considerate, and deeply dedicated to his faith. Those who know him describe him as a man of quiet strength, a humble soul who finds joy in life’s simplest blessings.

Jerry’s story of love began in March of 1948, when he married Bernadean Roar Carroll. Bernadean had a young son, Teddy Ray, who was just six years old at the time. Jerry raised him as his own, showing the kind of steadfast devotion that defines a true father. Today, Jerry is blessed with five grandchildren, all living in Michigan, who proudly carry forward the values and warmth that he instilled in their family.

In his spare time, Jerry enjoys the peace of nature and the comfort of home. He feeds the deer that visit his backyard nightly, watches basketball and car races, and makes sure to stay connected — visiting or talking on the phone with family regularly. His life is a gentle reminder that joy can be found in the steady rhythm of daily routines and the relationships we nurture along the way.

Jerry’s humility runs deep, but his pride in his service to his country shines through clearly. During World War II, Jerry served as a gunner, a role that demanded courage and precision. “Jerry proudly served his country during WWII and salutes the American flag every morning,” shared Meek. “Often, in our society, the elderly are overlooked but Jerry is a perfect example of the value that older people have. He still cooks all his meals, cleans his house and, more importantly, is a valued family member and friend.”

Every morning, when Jerry salutes the flag, it’s not just an act of patriotism — it’s a moment of gratitude for a life lived with honor and purpose. His service, his discipline, and his enduring love for his country are threads that run throughout his century of life.

When asked what advice he has for the younger generations, Jerry doesn’t hesitate:

“I’d tell young people to follow their conscience.”

Simple words, but they carry the weight of 100 years of experience. It’s advice that speaks to integrity — the kind that guides you through a world that changes constantly, yet still rewards kindness, honesty, and faithfulness.

Would you like to live to 100 and beyond with a great quality of life? For many, the idea feels distant — almost mythical. Yet, more people are reaching this milestone than ever before. In 2021, 89,739 centenarians — people who live to 100 or older — were reported to be living in the U.S. While that number is a small fraction of the population, about 0.027%, it has been increasing steadily over the last two decades.

Data from the nationally representative Health and Retirement study, “Becoming centenarians: disease and functioning trajectories of older U.S. adults as they survive to 100,” suggests that centenarians are generally healthier than other people of their generation. Many reach 100 with no major chronic diseases or disability, and more than half have no cognitive impairment.

Researchers studying longevity in “blue zones,” where people tend to live the longest, found some striking similarities: They prioritize stress relief throughout the day.

They largely eat a plant-based diet, don’t overeat, and drink alcohol in moderation.

They stay active throughout the day — working, walking, and playing together.

They feel connected to their community, family, and sense of purpose.

You don’t have to move across the world to embrace these habits. Even small, consistent changes can make a big difference. Experts agree that while genes play a role in longevity, over 80% of chronic disease can be prevented with healthy behaviors.

Eight key tips for healthy aging include: moving more, eating well, avoiding tobacco, getting regular checkups, knowing your family history, monitoring brain health, sleeping seven hours a night, and reducing stress through gratitude, mindfulness, and community connection.

Jerry Carroll is living proof that these principles work — not just for health, but for happiness. His days are filled with family, faith, and purpose. He cooks, cleans, laughs, remembers, and prays. He salutes his flag and thanks God for another sunrise.

As Jerry turns 100, his life reminds us that longevity is not just measured in years — it’s measured in love, service, and the quiet joy of doing the right thing.

So, here’s to Ercel “Jerry” Carroll, a man with two birthdays, a century of memories, and a legacy that will echo through generations.

Happy 100th, Jerry. You’ve shown us all what living well truly means.