Daisy Nanton shared one of her fondest life memories.
“I love sewing and making hats,” said Nanton. “At one time, I owned a shop in Montserrat. It was more like a gift shop. I sold cosmetics and jewelry, but it took up a lot of my time. I would travel to New York and buy my supplies. I really enjoyed making Easter hats. They were a big thing for me. In 1966, I had a terrible fire at the shop and lost everything in it and had no insurance. Queen Elizabeth was coming to visit Montserrat, and there were different functions taking place.”
She added, “I made so much money from the Queen’s visit that I was able to open my shop back up. She was there for over a week. I met her too. That was quite an experience.”
Not too many people have the privilege of meeting the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, but Nanton owns this royal distinction. Meeting Queen Elizabeth was among the events that have taken place in the life of 99-year-old Nanton. The Montserrat native is celebrating her 100th birthday on January 28, 2022.
When asked about how she felt about turning 100-years-old she said, “I’m excited, but at the same time there is some fear because of COVID. There are some people who can’t make my birthday party because of that. I have made a lot of friends here in Baltimore who really care for me.”
Nanton was born January 28, 1922 in Montserrat, an island in the Caribbean. When asked about her secret to longevity, Nanton laughed and said, “I have lived this long by having a positive mental attitude and through laughter.”
She added, “Life has been very interesting. Ups and downs. The good and the bad. And in between. But I have a strong connection to Jesus. When I was four, my mother told me the story about The Crucifixion. I was crying. Anytime I get in trouble it means nothing to me after all Jesus went through. Jesus is my all and all. Without him I am nothing.”
When asked if diet has contributed to her long years, Nanton who still possesses a charming sense of humor laughed and said, “My diet is horrible!”
Nanton has four daughters – Baltimore Times Publisher Joy Bramble, Pamela Arthurton, Carole Nanton, and Kathy Reevie, Editorial Assistant for The Baltimore Times. A fifth daughter Cynthia P. Nanton passed away. Her husband James Cray Nanton passed away in 1999.
“My most treasured memories involve my children,” said Nanton, who possesses a sharp memory. “Seeing them grow up and their achievements, which have included graduations and weddings. I have seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.”
The Centenarian said she has always enjoyed traveling, sewing, and catalog shopping.
“I made Joy’s wedding dress,” she said. “I also made dresses for other people.”
Nanton said she has lived in Baltimore since 1979. She formerly attended St. Peter Claver Catholic Church on Fremont Avenue before joining St. Matthew Catholic Church on Loch Raven Blvd, where she has been a member for 30 years.
A Birthday Celebration is planned this week for Nanton at The Forum on Primrose Avenue.
“I’m excited about my birthday party,” said Nanton. “I’m looking forward to it.”
