95 years old and still going strong

Mrs Jo Jordan believes the secret to a long life is placing one’s trust in God.

The Bedfordview resident celebrated her 95th birthday last Sunday with her family.

The NEWS caught up with Mrs Jordan at her home on Van der Linde Road.

With her hair neatly tied and styled, she sat in her bedroom catching up on her favourite soapies.

Asked what the secret to her long life is, Mrs Jordan said she asked God to give her life so she can watch her children grow.

“God then gave me extra time. Be careful what you ask for,” she said jokingly.

Born near the North West Province town of Mahikeng, Mrs Jordan grew up in a farm.

Mrs Jordan, who is also fluent in SeTshwana, said her family moved to Bedfordview when it was still a farming area.

“This house is one of the oldest in this area. We moved in here in the early 1950s and had over five acres of land. We had cows, milk and a piglet. I used to bake Christmas cakes and give them out as presents. I also made apricot jam, as well as canned peaches for people,” she said.

Mrs Jordan said helped to raise funds for the construction of the Bedfordview Methodist Church on Van Buuren Road.

“I became a beggar for God and received donations from everyone I could think of. I attended church every single Sunday,” she said.

Her favourite television programmes include soapies, church service on Sundays and the History Channel.

Mrs Jordan said her advice to youngsters is to trust in God.

“He will guide and show you the way. I also tell my helper all the time that she must not be afraid to smile. Smile always,” she said.

She said reaching the 95th year of her life is a milestone.

“My heart is content,” said Mrs Jordan, who was married for 63 years.

Mrs Jordan has two children, Mrs Cathy Wood and Mr James Jordan, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.