She doesn’t get to take the cane home, but last week Rochester’s oldest resident Maureen Riley, 102, still received citations, gratitude and the “Boston Post Cane” honor.
Council on Aging Executive Director Eric Poulin hosted a ceremony for Riley, who was surrounded by friends and family – many saying that being around loved ones is one of the secrets of Riley’s longevity.
The Boston Post Cane award started in 1909 when The Boston Post newspaper publisher asked 700 communities in the state to award the cane to their oldest resident, according to its website. Poulin said that Rochester is still one of the few communities to continue the tradition.
Poulin gave Riley a citation from the Select Board’s office, and Riley also heard from Minhtram Tran, a representative from Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz’s office, as well as Maureen Flanagan, a representative from State Senator Michael Rodrigues’ office.
“Your 102 years are a testament to resilience, grace and enduring happiness,” Tran said, reading the citation.
“It’s an achievement for you and your family. May you enjoy the new year with health and happiness,” added Flanagan.
Poulin said that the cane will be on display at the COA, along with photos that were taken of Riley.
Poulin noted that she gets to bring the citations home with her.
“If you don’t have a trophy room, I hope you do now,” Poulin said.
Riley lives with her daughter Katherine Riley-Keough and her husband John.
While dementia and hearing impairment make it difficult for Maureen Riley to discuss the secrets to her longevity, Katherine Riley-Keough and John Keough noted that she goes on vacations with them every year, which certainly helps. They also said that she was active most of her life, at one time avidly playing tennis, gardening and living a spiritual life.
Maureen Riley came to America from New Zealand more than seven decades ago. She worked as a cook for a Catholic rectory in New Bedford, staying employed up until her 80s. Her sense of humor also likely has played a part. She joked that she needed her reading glasses and couldn’t read the citations.
Flanagan noted that those who work late and stay active longer might be one of the secrets to a long life.
Riley-Keough said she expects that her mother will be around to receive honors next year. She will turn 103 on May 4, 2025.
Rochester Boston Post Cane
By Jeffrey D. Wagner