GREEN COVE SPRINGS— Celebrating 104 years of life on Jan. 15, Dorean Franklin said she has a lot to be thankful for.

“It feels pretty good.”

As a community matriarch, you can still find her sharing her sharp wisdom and positive spirit. For Franklin, her birthday was more than just any other day. It was a special time to reflect on her past and what has brought her to where she is today.

Born in Monticello, Florida in 1922, Franklin grew up with 11 siblings. She said she can remember learning from a young age what it meant to work and take care of others around her. She was also an avid piano player.

She moved to Clay County’s Pier Station in 1942 when she was 20 years old. She worked in a pecan factory, but after marrying her husband, she said his new job brought them to Green Cove Springs.

While here, she made a living doing housework, with jobs in Penney Farms and on Blanding Boulevard.

“Many days we used to wash first, and they keep bringing clothes on, keep bringing clothes. We had to wash it. And then after that, I got another job ironing up there in Penney Farms.”

Franklin continues to share her love of life with her family, including her two sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

“My family and I, we get along. I thank God for that. We get along. We don't fall out. We try to help each other.”

Her secret to such a momentous age: Loving God and always doing the right thing.

“That's what got me here just thinking about and trying to put my trust in God and keeping it.”