A century of Betty: St. James woman celebrates 100th

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) –St. James resident Betty Nicolaisen marked a major milestone this week — her 100th birthday — and did so doing exactly what she loves most: playing a game of bridge surrounded by her family and close friends.

The celebration took place at the Homer E. Wright Event Center, just after her weekly bridge game. Betty was joined by her four sons, grandchildren, and a room full of loved ones.

Born in Newfoundland, Betty has witnessed history unfold — from seeing Charles Lindbergh fly overhead as a child in 1927  to enlisting in the Canadian Women’s Army Corps at the age of 18.

But on this special day, her focus wasn’t on the past — it was on the joy of the present.

“I feel great. I am very fortunate,” Betty said. “It’s just wonderful to have all the family here — it makes it very special.”

The celebration isn’t over yet. The family plans to continue the festivities this weekend at their beach house, where even more cousins are expected to join the party.