EAST PALESTINE — A resident at an area nursing facility will celebrate her 100th birthday this weekend.

Amy Hunter, formerly of Dubois, Pa., has stayed at the Covington Assisted Living in East Palestine for the last four years.

Her daughter Saundra Ellenberger said the facility is holding a birthday party for her on Dec. 19 to commemorate the occasion.

Mrs. Hunter was one of 12 siblings and mother of six children (four sons and two daughters). She also has 14 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and six great-great grandchildren.

Her husband, Harold, died in 1995.

Primarily a homemaker, Amy was a dedicated sports mom who had attended Church Christian Missionary Alliance. She also cleaned the church.

Ellenberger described as her mother as a caretaker at heart, also caring for her aunts. Hunter also enjoyed crafts, sewing and baking. She used to make her homemade root beer and donuts.

“She was quite the baker,” Ellenberger added.

Mrs. Hunter also enjoyed playing cards with her siblings and traveling when her husband was still alive.

When asked about her mother’s secret to her longevity? Ellenberger theorized it is her simple and clean approach to live –and possible her root beer!

“She leads a quiet Christian life. Mom always has depended on God to get through troubled time,” adding that her mother is very strong-willed and faithful.

Covington activities director Carol Basinger is looking forward to feting Hunter.

Those wanting to join in the fun can forward cards to Mrs. Hunter, in care of Saundra Ellenberger; 425 McClure Road, Enon Valley, PA 16120.