Fairmount woman celebrates 100th birthday

Dora Devoe, who spent much of her life in Fairmount and is currently a resident at Heritage Health Care Center in Utica, celebrated her 100th birthday Friday afternoon surrounded by family, friends and other well-wishers. Family, who made the short drive from her native Syracuse, celebrated with cake, flowers, family photos, a stuffed brown bear.

Sarah Bormann, director of constituent and support services for Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, also read a special proclamation. Devoe was born in Syracuse and raised her family in the nearby hamlet of Fairmount, with her husband, Willis Austin, who passed away at the age of 30.  She supported her family by working as a cleaning lady at a local rectory. Devoe later served as a reading volunteer at her local BOCES. She was much loved by her students who affectionately called her “Grandma.” She credits her long life to remaining active and enjoys attending live entertainment, movie nights, and taking part in seasonal dances.