A Celebration of Life: Honoring Evangeline Paredes on Her 110th Birthday
NEW YORK — A beautiful day of joy and gratitude filled the air as members of the Filipino and Filipino American communities gathered to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 110th birthday of Ms. Evangeline Paredes. Recognized by DC Health as the oldest living resident of the nation’s capital, Ms. Paredes is a beacon of resilience and dedication.
“Maligayang Kaarawan! Happy Birthday! Happy 110th birthday, Ms. Paredes!” exclaimed a heartfelt message from the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. The warmth of their wishes reverberated as they expressed hopes for her continued good health, happiness, and countless joyful moments ahead. “Mabuhay!”
A Life of Service
Deputy Chief of Mission Felipe Cariño III was present to honor Ms. Paredes, celebrating not just her years, but the extraordinary life she has led. After serving in various roles at the Philippine Embassy during and after World War II, her journey took her to the Pentagon, where she had a distinguished 30-year career as a civil servant.
Her unwavering commitment to serving others earned her the highest civilian honor awarded to federal government employees. But retirement didn’t slow her down—far from it. Ms. Paredes stepped right into community service, becoming an active volunteer with AARP and lending her support to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, helping veterans and their families navigate life’s challenges.
In 2010, her extraordinary contributions to the community were recognized when she received the prestigious Andrus Award for Community Service. It’s clear that her legacy of service knows no age limits.
The Secret to a Long Life
When asked about her secret to reaching such an incredible age, Ms. Paredes offered simple yet profound advice: “The days just pass. Do what you can. Observe if you can help people. See what needs to be done, and do it.” Her words echo a deep understanding that a meaningful life is built on acts of kindness, connection, and service.
Family, friends, fellow residents, and community members gathered at Chevy Chase House Boutique Assisted Living in Washington, D.C., to celebrate this incredible milestone. At 110, Ms. Paredes is not just a symbol of longevity; she is a cherished friend, an inspiration, and a living testament to the power of community.
A Legacy of Caring
As the celebration unfolded, it was clear that Ms. Paredes embodies a spirit that sees beyond herself—a spirit that teaches us the importance of caring for one another. Her advice resonates with anyone seeking not just to add years to their life, but life to their years: find a community, serve others, and never stop caring.
So here’s to Ms. Evangeline Paredes—a vibrant soul whose journey inspires us all to embrace life with open hearts. May her story remind us that true fulfillment lies not in what we acquire, but in what we give. Let us carry her legacy forward, one act of kindness at a time.
