Eleanor “Ellie” Wyckoff was born in Lynn on Nov. 12, 1924, to Francis and Marie Jenkins. Wyckoff, along with her four brothers and one sister, attended St. Jean Baptiste School, graduating in 1943. She went on to become a registered nurse after graduating from the Lynn Hospital School of Nursing in 1946. While in nursing school, she joined the World War II Student Cadet Nurse Corps. Wyckoff dedicated her career to nursing, working at Lynn and Union hospitals until she retired at 72.

Ellie married Charles Wyckoff Jr., and together they had six children. She now has 12 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Wyckoff loved to dance, shop, and relax on the beach. She also enjoyed traveling, visiting countries throughout Europe, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Her favorite destination was Aruba, where she traveled more than 50 times. Wyckoff was honored for her love of the island with an honorary citizenship and ambassadorship after a festival in her honor.

Her family and friends recently celebrated her 100th birthday at Spinelli’s with 85 guests.

Wyckoff’s secret to a long life? Take each day as it comes.

Her grandchildren and family wish her a happy birthday and send their love.