An inspiring milestone for a cherished Tudor Village resident
Tudor Village Lilydale recently celebrated a very special occasion, resident Edna Parker’s 100th birthday on 2 September 2025. The milestone was marked with a series of gatherings, including morning tea at Tudor Village, a family luncheon at Dorset Gardens, and afternoon tea with the Country Women’s Association.
Edna has lived independently in her villa at Tudor Village for 25 years. She was among the early residents and has watched the village evolve into the vibrant retirement community it is today.
Born in Wandin and one of four sisters, Edna has deep roots in the Lilydale region. She recalls her first job at Hutchinsons Produce Store and meeting her future husband, Robert, after he returned from military service. They married in 1946 and later settled in Silvan, where they raised their three children: Ian, Adrienne, and Nancy.
Over the years, Edna and Robert built a life surrounded by family and community. Their home in Silvan was where they lived for five decades, and many of their 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren now also live close by.
After Robert passed away in 1997, Edna decided to move to Tudor Village. She remembers the original orchard and nursery that once stood on the site and identifies some of the trees in the village as coming from that very nursery.
Edna has always embraced adventure. Since moving to Tudor Village, she has travelled through Italy, Scandinavia, the British Isles, and France, as well as taking part in numerous Australian bus tours. She recently visited the Shrine of Remembrance on a Legacy tour.
Edna keeps busy with:
Jigsaw puzzles
Knitting baby clothes for charity
Intricate embroidery and beading work
She and her daughter create handmade teddy bears stitched with personal significance. For her 80th, 90th and 100th birthdays, each bear was signed by every guest in attendance.
When asked her secret to longevity, Edna laughs and says there isn’t one: simply to be happy, stay active, and stay surrounded by loved ones.
She still cooks for herself, attends village activities, and enjoys devotions and social gatherings. Although she no longer drives, family members ensure she gets out and about regularly.
“I’m very happy here and have made so many friends over the years. Everyone is friendly and supportive. I have all the company I need here,” says Edna.
