Drive-thru parade celebrates woman's 102nd birthday

KINSTON, Lenoir County (WCTI) — A woman with a unique name -- Pinky Harper -- celebrated her 102nd birthday in Kinston today.

The Heritage Elite Senior Retirement home teamed up with the Kinston Police Department and Kinston Fire Department to celebrate the big day. Law enforcement and first responders drove in front of the retirement home and sang through the radio for Harper, who sat on the porch with her closest friends during the socially-distant celebration.

She says the secret to living a long and happy life is staying busy and healthy.

“When I think of the alternative, it’s that or nothing, so I’m happy," she explained. "I’ve been fortunate with good health. I’ve never had a tooth cavity or filling. I’ve lived a healthy life, and I’ve always been interested in what was going around me. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.“

The 102-year-old adds that she hopes her old age motivates people to be even older than her one day.

Happy Birthday Pinky!

Pinky also says she hopes when people see how long she’s lived— it motivates them to one day be even older than her. Happy Birthday Pinky!