Maryland Woman Celebrates 100 Years with Family, Faith and Fabulous Style
Marjorie A. Nutter, a lifelong resident of Annapolis, Maryland, has reached the remarkable milestone of 100 years, celebrating her centennial birthday on March 13 at the Asbury Methodist Episcopal Church surrounded by friends, family, and fellow church members. Born in 1926 in the Old 4th Ward, a historically Black neighborhood in Annapolis that was demolished in the 1960s for government buildings, Nutter attributes her longevity to a simple yet profound philosophy: taking care of oneself and maintaining unwavering faith in God.
A Life Rooted in Community and Service
Nutter's life has been deeply intertwined with her community and family. An alumna of Anne Arundel County Public Schools, she dedicated two decades of her career to the state of Maryland, working in the general services division. She married Ernest Nutter Sr., with whom she had two sons, Ernest Jr. and Dana. Though her husband and children have since passed away, Nutter finds joy in her one granddaughter and three great-grandchildren, who continue to visit her regularly.
Her niece, Bonita Sims, fondly recalls Nutter's impeccable fashion sense and gracious hosting skills. 'Everything was matching, and nothing was ever out of place. She's still like that even now,' Sims told reporters. For her recent interview with the Capital Gazette, Nutter ensured she looked her best, getting her nails and hair done and donning a purple dress, tiara, and a gold sash emblazoned with '100 & Fabulous.'
Secrets to a Century of Living
When asked about the key to her long life, Nutter emphasizes self-care and divine faith. 'He looks after you,' she says of God, highlighting how her spiritual beliefs have provided strength and guidance. Family remains at the heart of her existence, with Nutter noting, 'The rest of my family and for them to live along with me is special. They're sticking right by me. My sisters are sticking right by me.'
Her family members echo this sentiment, with Harrod, a relative, stating, 'I always looked up to her. She even helped our mom give birth to some of us,' underscoring Nutter's supportive and nurturing role throughout the years.
Witnessing History and Embracing Life
Nutter's century has spanned pivotal moments in American history, including the Great Depression, World War II, the Civil Rights Movement, and two pandemics—the Spanish flu in the 1930s and COVID-19 in the 2020s. Among these events, she was particularly thrilled to witness Barack Obama become the first Black president of the United States. 'She was real excited when that happened,' Sims recalled. 'She was really happy that she was alive to witness that.'
Beyond historical milestones, Nutter has led a vibrant and active life. She kept herself busy by singing in the church choir, acting in plays, and traveling, with a memorable trip to Hawaii with her mother in the 1970s. A talented seamstress, she also loved cooking, baking, and creating flower arrangements, often hosting large parties in her yard where she would 'have a whole spread for everyone.'
Recognition and Legacy
In February, Nutter received an award from the City of Annapolis in recognition of her centenarian status. The document, signed by Mayor Jared Littmann and all eight City Council members, praised her contributions: 'You've improved your community and the lives of those around you in countless ways over these last 100 years, and those who've been lucky enough to know you will not soon forget that. Congratulations and happy birthday.'
As she reflects on her journey, Marjorie A. Nutter stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and the enduring power of family. Her story not only celebrates a personal achievement but also offers inspiration for living a fulfilling and meaningful life, proving that with care, belief, and loved ones by your side, reaching 100 can indeed be fabulous.
