100 years young: Bell Gardens celebrates Maria Mercedes Ruiz

BELL GARDENS, CA — Longtime Bell Gardens resident Maria Mercedes Ruiz has reached a milestone that even she can hardly believe.

Ruiz was honored during the Oct. 26 City Council meeting with a certificate celebrating her 100th birthday and recognizing her kindness, wisdom, perseverance, and youthful spirit.

“I can’t believe it’s already been 100 years!” Ruiz said in a video tribute played during the meeting.

In the video, Ruiz recalled moving to Bell Gardens when she was 40.

“I’ve been here 50+ years,” she said.

A regular at the Bell Gardens Senior Center, Ruiz said she enjoys catching up with friends and praised the staff.

“They work very hard,” she said. “You all know that I love you.”

Asked about her favorite memory from her 100 years of life, the centenarian recalled sharing dinner with her sisters.

“There were just four of us sisters, and at night we would get together to have dinner, and we couldn’t even eat, we were laughing so much,” she said.

“I wish I could remember what we used to talk about, but no, I don’t remember,” Ruiz added.

The video also showed Ruiz celebrating at the Senior Center on Clara Street, where she took to the dance floor.

After the presentation, Ruiz stepped up to the podium to thank everyone.

“Thank you all so much. I never imagined so many people would be here,” she said. “I'm very grateful. I love you all very much, and thank you.”

Maria's remarks were translated from Spanish.