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The lobby and dining hall of Brookdale Assisted Living were filled with murmurs of celebration and second, third and fourth generations of Jane D. Modrell’s family were surrounding her to celebrate a century of living.

By the way she walked–with confidence and grace and surrounded by her family, one could hardly tell it was her 100th birthday.

Modrell’s birthday, Sept. 28, meant the beautiful lady was joining a club not many expect to join: the Centenarian Club.

The Century Club of Bedford County presented Modrell with a certificate of celebration. “The Century Club of Bedford County acknowledges and celebrates 100 years of life. During this century of time, you have dedicated your love of family and community to so many. We commend your fortitude, personal resolve and determination through the many defining times in your life and our nation’s historic eras. On this 28th day of September, 2023, we welcome you to the Century Club. On behalf of all our centenarian members, their families and Bedford County at large, we celebrate and honor your 100 years of life,” stated the certificate.

Amber Bevis with Arosa Care spoke in celebration of Modrell.

“In 2012, we founded the Centenarian Club of Bedford County. We celebrate anyone who is 100 years of age or older,” she said.

“Today we celebrate Jane Modrell. Her family has given me a little bit of information about her and I’d like to share with everyone here today. She was born and raised on a dairy farm in Maryville, Tenn. She lived in California for six years and then moved back to Tennessee where she finished high school. After high school, she went to UT Knoxville to get a degree in Home Economics. She graduated in 1945. She taught in some surrounding counties but made Tullahoma her home. She was the Food Service Director for the City of Tullahoma from 1970 until she retired. She was married to Harold, who passed away in 1986. She has one son, Alfred. She attends First Presbyterian Church on Grundy Street here in Tullahoma,” said Bevis.

“We are honored to present you with your induction into the Centenarian Club,” said Bevis.

Modrell was also honored with a proclamation from Governor Bill Lee which stated “On behalf of the people of Tennessee, greetings. Be it known that Jane D. Modrell, in recognition of achieving 100 years of age, is hereby accorded this Centenarian Award with sincere congratulations and best wishes from the people of Tennessee. Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of Tennessee in Nashville, this 28th day of Sept., 2023.”

When asked what life advice she could give to others, Modrell at first laughed and said she didn’t have any, but she smiled and said “Be kind and honor God.”