SOLEDAD — Surrounded by family, friends and local leaders, Eloise Betty Jackson marked her 100th birthday on Feb. 15 at Eden Valley Care Center in Soledad, celebrating a century defined by resilience, devotion and community.
The centennial celebration drew residents, extended family members who traveled for the occasion, church members and public officials to the facility operated by the Soledad Community Health Care District.
Earlier in the day, Soledad Mayor Anna Velazquez visited to wish Jackson a happy birthday and present a certificate recognizing the milestone. Later, residents and guests gathered for birthday cake and formal acknowledgments.
Jackson received recognitions from Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez and state Sen. John Laird. Salinas Mayor Denis Donohue presented a City of Salinas proclamation, noting that Jackson had previously lived in Salinas before moving to Eden Valley. Soledad Councilwoman Evarista Bañuelos attended alongside members of Liberty Chapel Church.
Born Feb. 15, 1926, in Rosebud, Ark., Jackson, née Chaney, was raised on a farm, where she learned the values of hard work and faith that would shape her life.
During World War II, she served on the home front as “Eloise the Riveter,” contributing to the war effort at a pivotal time in American history.
She married Homer Jackson on Nov. 19, 1942, when she was 17 and he was 19. The couple left Arkansas that same day and moved to Southern California to begin their life together. Their marriage spanned 80 years.
Jackson is the matriarch of two daughters, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, many of whom were present for the celebration. Her daughter Martha described her as “the perfect mother and wife,” reflecting the care and devotion Jackson poured into her family over the decades.
In 2005, she and her husband relocated to Salinas to be closer to family. Today, Jackson calls Eden Valley home.
According to a biography provided by Eden Valley, Jackson has long enjoyed gardening, knitting and baking, hobbies that reflect her nurturing spirit. She is especially known for her rose gardens, and many family members fondly recall her homemade pies and cookies.
“Reaching 100 years of life is a rare and meaningful milestone,” said Ida Lopez Chan, CEO of Soledad Community Health Care District. “Mrs. Jackson’s story reminds us why compassionate, person-centered care matters. At Eden Valley, we are honored to not only care for our residents, but to celebrate their lives, their histories and the legacy they continue to share with our community.”
Family members have expressed deep appreciation for the care she receives at the facility. As her daughter shared, “She loves Eden Valley, and so do we. We wouldn’t have her anywhere else.”
Known for her kindness and gentle spirit, Jackson remains a warm presence in the community she now embraces as home.
“At 100 years young, Eloise Betty Jackson embodies grace, resilience and joy,” said Eden Valley in a statement included in her biography. “She shows us all what it truly means to live well, love deeply and age beautifully. She is not only a centenarian. She is an inspiration to everyone fortunate enough to know her.”
