Henry Burgess, the oldest resident of William F. Green State Veterans Home, is turning 102 on May 21st, and he has only one wish – to receive 102 birthday cards from all over the world.
The tradition of sending birthday cards to Henry started when he was approaching his 100th birthday, and he has been eagerly waiting for them every year since then.
Henry has survived Covid-19 twice and is a healthy centenarian whose secret to longevity is three shots of Evan Williams bourbon every afternoon, which he takes religiously.
Born during the Great Depression in Mobile, Alabama, Henry joined the U.S. Army in 1942 and served two years in Burma as an aircraft mechanic on small airplanes.
He returned to Mobile and married his sweetheart, Mary, who he had met before joining the Army.
They were married for 75 years and raised three sons and a daughter.
Henry and Mary loved Mardi Gras and were phenomenal dancers.
Henry has outlived his beloved Mary, as well as all his siblings.
For the past three years, Henry has lived at the veterans’ home in Bay Minette, where he enjoys playing cards and bingo with his fellow residents.
Whenever he walks down the hall, everyone greets him with, “Here comes the birthday boy!”
Henry would love to receive as many birthday cards as possible, even if they don’t arrive in time for his special day.
Let’s make Henry’s birthday memorable by showering him with love and birthday wishes from all over the world!
If youâd like to help make Henryâs birthday a memorable one, please send a card to:
Henry L. âDiddyâ Burgess
c/o William F. Green State Veterans Home
300 Faulkner Dr. F Wing
Bay Minette, AL 36507
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