Betty Dryer has lived through four cancers, takes little to no medication other than vitamins, was married to the love of her life for 71 years, and is in perfect health.

Today, she celebrated an amazing 101st birthday with us here at Waltonwood Cherry Hill in Canton.

So what’s her advice for a long and healthy life? It’s as simple as can be.
“Be happy,” she says.

That’s exactly what we are today: happy to know her, happy for her, and happy that she is a part of the Waltonwood family.

Betty Dryer was born Nov. 18, 1917, and raised in Coldwater, Mich. As a child, she lived on a farm and loved it, and she enjoyed her childhood with her brother and a sister. She remembers when there were no cars, no electricity, and no bathrooms inside the house.

She went to high school in Coldwater, Mich., and later attended Cleary Business College in Ypsilanti. She spent some time working as a bookkeeper soon afterward.

Betty met her husband, Clyde, on a blind date. After obtaining his medical degree from the University of Michigan, he worked at Annapolis Hospital in Wayne until he opened his own medical practice.

Betty and Clyde were married for more than 71 years and had three children, all of whom also attended the University of Michigan. One is a medical doctor, one is a teacher, and the third is a professor of nursing.

Needless to say, Betty Dryer and her family are huge U of M fans! 

Betty said she had a wonderful marriage and a wonderful family that now includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She said her family was so successful because they worked hard at it and lived life to the fullest by making the best of every day.

She is a longtime member of the First Congregational Church of Wayne and enjoys crocheting, playing cards and dominos, socializing, and gardening. She is a member of the Mayflower Society and is a talented baker and cook.

We’re thrilled to help her celebrate her special day, so please join us in wishing her a wonderful 101st birthday!