Centenarian stories from At 100th birthday Billings woman celebrated by family and first employer McDonald's

In Billings, Montana, Kathryn Pickett marked her 100th birthday with a heartfelt celebration that bridged her past and present.

At 16, Pickett began her working life as a carhop at the original McDonald's in San Bernardino, California. Reflecting on those days, she recalled, "A car would pull up to the side and order their meal, whatever they wanted, and we'd bring it out on a tray... they would leave probably a quarter tip."

Decades later, her family reached out to McDonald's to share the milestone. The company responded warmly, sending a gift basket and joining the family in celebrating with McFlurries and coffee. "I was really surprised," Pickett admitted, touched by the gesture.

After her stint at McDonald's, Pickett dedicated 27 years to working as a telephone operator. Her role occasionally connected her with celebrities, including the legendary Frank Sinatra. She recounted a memorable night when Sinatra called from Palm Springs to Hollywood at 3 a.m., noting, "Of course, being Frank Sinatra... you're going to open that switch... I don't remember what they talked about. That was fun."

When asked about the secret to her longevity, Pickett emphasized staying active. "I often wonder why I went this long. I think it might be the fact that I ran a lot," she shared. Her love for running provided a sense of freedom, allowing her to feel as though she was in another world.

Beyond running, Pickett embraced hiking and biking, exploring destinations like Yellowstone National Park and Machu Picchu. Her adventurous spirit inspired those around her. Her stepdaughter, Linda Patenaude, expressed, "I've always loved Kathy from the minute I met her... she would show me places that she would run, and we would go together."

Even as she now uses a wheelchair, Pickett's youthful spirit remains undiminished. When asked if she feels 100, she responded, "No. I don't. That sounds awfully old. But there I am."

Surrounded by four great-grandchildren, Pickett's century-long journey stands as a testament to a life richly lived, filled with cherished memories and enduring connections.