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Centenarian Spotlight

Robert Guy Boyer

Robert was born in Harrisburg on March 13, 1924, and spent the rest of his life in Carlisle. He met his lovely wife Beulah at Harr’s Roller Rink. A devoted husband, of 75 years, Robert and his wife raised three daughters, have seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Robert Boyer Centenarian
Robert Boyer Centenarian

A city boy who always wanted to farm, purchased 14 farms, his first in 1959. One day, he sold his milk cows on a whim and took his family on a month-long road trip to Disneyland. When he came back, Robert decided to drive for Agri-Service before retiring in 1992.

But the adventure continued! Robert surprised his wife by buying a junkyard at a public sale. A member of Carlisle Church of Christ since 1953, Robert and his wife still drive to service each week. Robert’s secret to longevity? Keeping busy, going to church, and drinking vinegar and honey!

Robert Boyer Centenarian

Known for his generosity and big heart. Robert says his biggest accomplishment is his family.

Shirley Halliday

“You’re amazing, and you are an inspiration,” were just some of the sentiments heard during a celebration honoring Shirley for 27 years of active and dedicated service to the Penn State Master Gardener program in Cumberland County. Shirley, who just turned 100 years old, joined the program because she loved gardening, and wanted to learn more. She began her tenure at Kings Gap and helped with the holiday parties at Hope Station in Carlisle. Her interest in gardening continues to inspire her love for flowers, but she doesn't want to settle on just one favorite, “I love them all.”

Shirley Halliday
Shirley Halliday with Master Gardeners

Shirley was born on October 7, 1923, in Utica, New York. At fifteen during a summer vacation at Lake George, she met the love her life. They later married after she graduated from Syracuse University. So, what attracted him to her? She coyly said, “he was a good-looking guy and looked good in a swimsuit!” And, they had mutual interests and loved reading and traveling. 

Shortly after getting married, her husband Herbert Edward enlisted in the Army to fight in WWII. Shirley became a housewife and fought the good fight at home. After the war, the Army Colonel became a Doctor of Optometry and opened an office in Carlisle. After 71 years of marriage and 33 years in the army, the retired colonel doctor passed away in 2016.

Shirley and Herbert traveled the world, with England being her favorite spot. She has three wonderful children, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

You can still find Shirley doing one of her favorite things as she continues to volunteer at the Master Gardener Program and at The Bookery, inside Bosler Library.

What's the secret to her longevity? “Luck!” said the petite snow white-haired centenarian. But she also says that having a happy marriage, good kids, and being active keeps her young.” And, of course, chocolate cake!

Shirley Halliday
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