Regina Sterling marked her 100th birthday Monday at The Retreat at Fort Walton Beach, where staff, residents and family members gathered to celebrate the centenarian with a surprise party.

• State Rep. Patt Maney also attended the celebration to wish Sterling a happy birthday.

Sterling, a Maryland native, was born in Clements and spent most of her life in Leonardtown before moving to Northwest Florida about eight to 10 years ago to be near family. 

Before retiring, Sterling worked as a civil service employee at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in Maryland. She was also active in her community’s volunteer fire department auxiliary, helping with the department’s annual carnival where volunteers made pizzas.

Sterling was married for about 60 years before her husband, Kirk, passed away. She maintained her independence after moving to Florida, living in her own home and driving until about a year ago when a fall required her to transition to assisted living.

Her niece said Sterling adapted well to life in Northwest Florida, traveling to Europe and other destinations with family, dining out weekly and playing cards regularly. Her favorite card game is Pitch, a Southern Maryland tradition she still plays competitively.

• “She can still beat us,” her niece said.

The Retreat at Fort Walton Beach, formerly Bay Port, is located at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Memorial Parkway. The Phoenix Senior Living community currently houses 96 residents across 122 rooms, offering both assisted living and memory care services.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Ms. Regina!