Joan was joined by generations of her family to mark the incredible milestone
A remarkable local woman who once balanced the books at Jackson’s and served treats at Maynards sweet shop has marked an extraordinary milestone, celebrating her 105th birthday early so she could be surrounded by generations of her devoted family. Born on May 20, 1921, Joan Dearing was treated like royalty at Figham House Care Home, in Beverley, for a special celebration where she donned a pink crown for a party attended by her son, Paul, two grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and ten great-great-grandchildren.
The festivities included a special visit from the Mayor of Beverley, Councillor Alison Healy, who presented Joan with a card on behalf of the town. Joan was so appreciative and thankful to the Mayor for visiting her to which the Mayor replied: “It is so lovely to see you again, have a beautifully happy birthday. It’s an absolute pleasure it really is.” The room was filled with balloons, music from singer George England, and a prestigious congratulatory card from the King.
Joan’s journey began in Thorne before she moved to Cottingham during the Second World War, following her father’s work on the railway. She remained a fixture of the Cottingham community for over 70 years, maintaining her home independently for nearly two decades after her husband passed away. It was only at the age of 101 that she finally made the move to Figham House.
Her son, Paul Dearing, attributes her longevity to a fierce sense of self-reliance. “She’s very independent. She knows what she likes and doesn’t like and soon tells you,” he explained. “When she lived alone, the only thing she allowed me to do was her shopping.
“She’s so independent that she did her own washing, ironing, cleaning, everything. Even at 101 she was sat at the table ironing, she just wouldn’t let anyone else do it.”
Throughout her working life, Joan was a familiar face in local commerce, moving from Jackson’s to Maynards – where she worked across branches in Cottingham, Beverley, and Hull – before eventually retiring from a butcher’s shop in Cottingham.
The birthday celebration was a collaborative effort between her family and care home staff, including activity co-ordinator Poppy Etherton and the care home manager. “Our cook has done a lovely buffet and beautiful cake and we have a singer George England who has come in,” said Poppy.
She described Joan as “lovely” and “the sweetest lady”, adding: “She keeps her teddies with her – they’re always on her table and she has given them all names.” As the afternoon drew to a close, the family gathered to sing Happy Birthday.
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