Castlederg's centenarian blooms brightly at 100

CASTLEDERG was awash with joy and pride last Sunday as one of its most cherished residents, Majorie Young, celebrated an extraordinary milestone - her 100th birthday.

Surrounded by the people who love her most, Majorie marked her centenary at Hillcrest Nursing Home, Omagh, joined by her devoted daughters, Valerie and Laraine, six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

The room was filled with laughter, stories and the unmistakable warmth that Majorie has inspired in everyone lucky enough to know her.

To generations in Castlederg, Majorie is remembered as the heart and soul of Tweedy Acheson’s, where she ran the women’s department with unmistakable style and enviable efficiency.

Staff and customers alike admired her sharp eye, her impeccable sense of order and, of course, her favourite good-humoured saying: “Say a lot, say nothing.”

She trained countless employees over the years, passing on not only retail expertise but her trademark warmth, wit and generosity of spirit.

Majorie’s love of fashion extended far beyond the shop floor. Twice a year she travelled to Belfast to hand-pick the season’s styles, returning with a flair that Castlederg’s shoppers adored.

Her instinct for trends and her natural elegance made her a treasured figure in the town’s fashion scene.

Outside of work, Majorie’s life has always been rich with hobbies, talents and adventures.

A keen draughts player and accomplished bowler, she travelled the length and breadth of Ireland for tournaments - often returning home with trophies gleaming as brightly as her smile.

Her gifted hands also produced beautiful knitting, cross-stitch and crochet work; every one of her great-grandchildren has been wrapped in something lovingly crafted by her.

Her green fingers were equally celebrated. Weekends often found Majorie tending her garden, coaxing colour and life from every corner - a true reflection of how she has nurtured the people around her throughout her life.

A devoted Wimbledon watcher and a curious traveller, Majorie rarely missed a match or an opportunity to explore the world. Whether visiting her daughter Valerie in the Middle East or holidaying with her dear friend John in Bournemouth and the Channel Islands, she filled her life with stories, friendships and unforgettable memories.

Many adventures were shared with her close friend Iris, with whom she travelled often.

As one of the oldest members of the Mothers’ Union, Majorie continues to be admired and cherished by all who know her.

Her 100 years stand as a shining testament to a life shaped by hard work, curiosity and a kind heart.

On this remarkable birthday, Castlederg celebrates not just a centenarian - but a woman who has brightened the world around her for a full century, and continues to do so with grace, humour and boundless love.