Centenarian Credits Active Life for Longevity
World War II Veteran Still Going Strong at 101
Turning 101 in June 2025, **Robert Bailey**, a World War II veteran, continues to inspire others by maintaining an active lifestyle with twice-weekly workouts. His dedication highlights the benefits of staying active, even at an advanced age.
Staying Active is Key
**Bailey** attributes his longevity to a combination of factors, including good genetics, a supportive family, proper nutrition, and remaining active despite physical challenges. He emphasizes that being active, even with limitations, has been crucial to his health.
Until his early 90s, **Bailey** mowed his lawn and walked six miles daily. While he now uses a walker and faces challenges like rheumatoid arthritis and declining hearing, he still lives independently and embraces technology, staying connected with family through social media.
Words of Inspiration
“When you live a long time, you see a lot of changes in the world,”
**Bailey** said, reminiscing about a time when his hometown shared just three telephones. Today, the Pew Research Center reports that 97% of Americans own a cell phone (Pew Research Center).
**Richard Holihan**, a fellow gym member, describes **Bailey** as “remarkable, so sharp, alert and as pleasant as he can be…You see a person like him, smiling, so positive…he’s just not sitting there either…He’s doing his thing.”
Early Life and Service
**Bailey** was born in 1924 in South Johns, Alabama. He recalls playing baseball and swimming in creeks during his childhood. At 14, he worked at a local grocery store. In 1943, **Bailey** joined the Army, serving in various campaigns and receiving two Bronze Stars for his service during the Battle of the Bulge.
Love and Family
**Bailey** and his wife, **Hannah**, were childhood sweethearts. They built a life together, raising a family and establishing an auto parts business. **Hannah**’s death in 2010 was a significant loss for **Bailey**. He is supported by his three sons, daughter-in-law, eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.
“I think he enjoys the experiences and challenges, and the reward he gets out of it,”
said son **Bobby**. “The longevity and independence he’s maintaining… he has been kind of like that all of his life.”
A Lasting Impact
**Todd Del Calzo**, executive director at Premier, hopes **Bailey**’s dedication motivates others. “Mr. Bailey should provide inspiration to many. Simply, if you have the willingness, there is no reason why you can’t continue to stay active at any age. He is definitely a new role model to me…I hope his story motivates many gym-goers to move and be active.”
Today, **Bailey** continues to embrace life, demonstrating that an active lifestyle and positive attitude can lead to a long and fulfilling life. He remains an inspiration to all who know him.
