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CEDAR HILLS — Before the friends, treats and music showed up, Virginia Lewis said she heard rumors that her grandchildren were planning a party. Even if she doesn't think it's an accomplishment, they think reaching 106 is cause for celebration.
The family's popular "Aunt Virginia" is now the oldest living direct descendant of Utah Pioneers and the oldest Utahn born in the state, her family members say.
Until just four months ago, Virginia was still living in her Draper home, but because of failing eyesight she now resides in the Charleston Assisted Living Community in Cedar Hills.
Friday was a day of reminiscing and remembering her ancestors. Absalom Smith helped settle what is now Draper and became an early Latter-day Saint church leader there. Perry Fitzgerald crossed the plains as a wagon master and raised the flag on Ensign Peak. They are Virginia's grandfathers.
"I remember my Grandmother Fitzgerald," Virginia recalled. "She crossed the plains in need of food and water, but she said it was not sorrow and suffering. She said, 'We danced at night, we sang, we had very pleasant evenings together.' She was a very petite, little lady and had extra curly hair."
Virginia Smith met Rulon Lewis at BYU; friends introduced them, and they used to meet in the library to socialize. "Today, young people study there," she said.
Virginia and Rulon married on September 9, 1929. He was an agronomist, working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture under Ezra Taft Benson. They lived in various locations throughout the United States and overseas in Kenya and Thailand.
Rulon worked to increase food production by improving the soil. Virginia served in many church positions wherever she lived and became the first stake Relief Society president in Thailand.
Virginia became very close to her husband's secretary in Thailand, Suparin Pornprapurnt. She later visited Virginia in Utah, and the two still correspond.
"She always called me her 'American mama,' and I used to smile at that. She was a very sweet girl," Virginia said.
Virginia lost her husband in his early 50s to a heart attack, and their only son when his heart stopped suddenly in his 40s. Her faith and her grandchildren and their accomplishments have sustained her she says.
Despite her travels and the beautiful sites she has seen, living across the country and around the world, Virginia feels best right here in Utah. She remembers the wonderful times with six older sisters and three older brothers on the farm. "There is no place, there really is no place like home," she said.
As for advice, Virginia says, "Eat healthy food. I was raised on a farm and ate the very best of healthy food. And your attitude is a great deal to do with it. Have a good attitude toward your life and make the best of each day and everything seems to work out OK."
Email: cmikita@ksl.com
