110 Years Young: Mary Papillon's Secret to a Long Life

Lake Ronkonkoma resident Mary Papilon celebrated her 110th birthday with family, friends and neighbors, marking a life spanning a century of American history.

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico and Councilman Neil Manzella joined the celebration at Brookwood on the Lake Apartments, where they presented Papilon with a town proclamation recognizing the milestone.

“Reaching 110 years of age is an extraordinary accomplishment,” Panico said. “Today, Councilman Neil A. Manzella and I were honored to recognize Lake Ronkonkoma resident Mary Papilon as she celebrated this remarkable milestone.”

Papilon was born Aug. 3, 1916, in the Bronx to Italian immigrant parents. A mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, she is known by those close to her for her resilience, humor, warmth and positive outlook.

She continued driving and cooking well into her 90s and recovered after breaking her hip shortly before turning 100. Today, Papilon enjoys playing bingo, visiting with family and socializing with Brookwood residents.

“One hundred and ten years old—it’s incredible to think about everything Mary has witnessed, the events we read about in history books,” Panico said. “She’s seen it all and lived through it.”

When Panico asked Papilon for the secret to her longevity, she quickly responded, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.”

Manzella called the celebration an opportunity to witness something many people hope to achieve.

“It’s something we all wish for and hope for, and today we get to witness it firsthand celebrating a beautiful young lady,” Manzella said. “I hope to be back next year celebrating her next one.”

Papilon’s daughter, Regina Giglio, joined relatives, friends and residents for the occasion. Giglio previously credited her mother’s sense of humor as Papilon approached her 109th birthday last year.