McKee Woman Turns 100; Receives Citation from State

Helen Decker of McKee celebrated her 100th birthday on Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2019.

She was born on Feb. 13, 1919, in McKee, daughter of Samuel and Edith Wilt. She is the oldest of four sisters and three brothers.

Helen married Chalmer Decker on March 7, 1939. He passed away on Nov. 21, 2001.

Helen was employed by Highway Department 5 (PennDOT) for five years.

Helen said she attended President John F. Kennedy's inauguration in January 1961. The Highway Department took a bus to the inauguration.

As a girl she learned typing and shorthand. Today she can write and understand shorthand.

Helen was very smart, and she skipped the fifth grade in 1936. She started school at the age of 5 and went to J.J.Shaeffer McKee School. This was a one-room school house with three grades. She also attended Roaring Spring High School. There were 36 in her graduating class.

Helen had cataracts removed and today she does not wear glasses. She loves word books and reads for enjoyment. Her favorite foods are mashed potatoes and homemade ice cream.

In her lifetime she grew up in a depression, loved to create plaid rugs and make flower gardens. She won a 1962 Plymouth Valiant in Harrisburg.

She also attended the World's Fair in New York in 1964 by bus with her mother.

The family had a celebration for her on Feb. 9 in the community center at the McKee Playground. State Rep. Jim Gregory presented Helen with a citation at the celebration party. More than 88 people attended.

Helen resides with her son, Gene Decker, his wife, Jeanie, and granddaughter Sharon.

She is a member of McKee Methodist Church.

Helen has one child, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Helen is a beautiful lady inside and out. She will talk with you about her life experiences and carry on a great conversation.