WOMAN of Steel Effie Copley has celebrated her 100th birthday at the Rotherham care home where she lives.
The centenarian marked the occasion with a party at Whiston Hall Care Home, on The Manorial Barn Chaff Close, with her family, fellow residents and staff.
Effie received flowers, gifts and over 80 birthday cards, including from HRH King Charles and Queen Camilla, nearby schools, care homes, and other members of the community.
Singer Keeley May provided entertainment on the day, while the kitchen team provided food and cake, and guests raised a toast with a glass of bubbly.
Effie said: “It was so lovely to celebrate with all my friends and family. We had a great day. I definitely do not feel like I’m 100.”
Effie was born on 28th January 1926, having been delivered at Rotherham Fire Station, due to her father being on shift as a policeman helping the fire team.
She grew up in Greasbrough and eventually got a job at Sheffield Steelworks for two years during the Second World War, for which she was honoured as one of the “Women of Steel” with a monument in Sheffield city centre in 2016.
Effie remained at the steelworks for a further two years before moving to the Parkgate Iron and Steel Company for a further five years. She said: “I really enjoyed my time in both.
During this time she met Donald Copley at The Mail Coach Pub, in Rotherham, while out for drinks with friends.
The couple married on 1st February 1947, the day after her 21st birthday, at St Mary’s Church, Greasbrough, followed by a party at the town hall.
Effie and her late husband have three children, Janet, Steven, Peter, as well as four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Effie said: “I enjoy spending times with loved ones. My family is my passion. I am very lucky to have a big family that come to visit me often.”
Asked her secret to a long life, Effie replied: “Plenty of rest, good food, and good company.”
Marie Keaveney, activities coordinator at Whiston Hall Care Home, said: “We have been so honoured to be able to celebrate this massive milestone with Effie and her family.
“Effie has lived at Whiston Hall a long time and everyone has been so excited about her birthday. The staff here were delighted to be able to celebrate with Effie.”
