Special to The Leader

Juanita Timberlake was treated to an extra special birthday celebration as she turned 90 on Saturday, June 24.

She celebrated with over 90 guests at St. Mary’s Church Hall.

Reverend Joseph Daleo greeted all, praised mother and acknowledged her 70 years as a Catholic Daughter, her bimonthly visits to the nursing home taking Communion and praying with residents, monthly volunteering at the soup kitchen and weekly attending Chapel.

She also sings in the Angel Choir for funeral masses. Timberlake received a special blessing with hands extended by all present.

Mother has been a resident of Orange since November of 1946, almost 71 years.

She worked for Southern Pacific Railroad selling tickets for the train and as a telegrapher clerk for all trains coming and going through Orange. She is thrilled that the depot where she worked ’46-’75 is restored.

Her 45 years on the Railroad took her from Morse Code messages to computer programs.

Timberlake was taken on a 90th birthday celebration trip in May to Rome, Paris, and Florence.

The 10 day trip included a Papal Audience with Pope Francis, touring Vatican City and Rome, touring the Louvre, mass at Notre Dame, and champagne toast at the top of the Eiffel Tower, as well as a round trip fast train ride from Rome to Florence, touring the Doumo Cathedral, Michaelangelo Hill, and Pitti Palace.

The American Airline Captain, upon landing, welcomed her to Rome and wished her a very happy birthday.

Joining her for birthday celebrations were many family members and dear friends. The party hosts were: daughter Marie Hylden and husband Rick; daughter Patty Willis and husband Steve; and son Charles “Budgy” Timberlake. Five grandchildren: Lynn Hylden, Laura Hylden Henry, Michael Hylden and wife, Jill, Megan Willis and Brett Willis.

Five great-grandchildren: Charles Hylden, 5 mos; Lyla Henry 2yrs; Charlotte Hylden 6 yrs and Marshall Hylden 3yrs. Michael and Jill expecting great-grandchild number fifth to arrive in August!