A Century of Life and Wisdom at Greenan Manor Care Home in Ayr

Greenan Manor Care Home in Ayr recently played host to a very special celebration, as resident May Keith marked her 100th birthday with a party full of joy, laughter and love. Born in May 1925 on Prestwick Road in Ayr, May has spent a full century living through momentous changes and making memories rooted in her beloved home region.

One of her earliest memories is of her grandmother owning the very first pair of headphones on the market – a sign of just how much the world has transformed during her lifetime. From technological revolutions to cultural shifts and global events, May’s 100 years have spanned some of the most significant chapters of modern history.

A Day to Remember

To celebrate this remarkable milestone, the team at Greenan Manor Care Home threw a party for May, her family, fellow residents, and friends of the home. The celebration was filled with balloons, flowers, and of course, a magnificent birthday cake. The highlight of the afternoon was a surprise visit from the Deputy Lord Lieutenant, the Reverend Fraser Aiken, who presented May with a personal card from His Majesty King Charles III and Queen Camilla – a royal honour befitting such a special occasion.

Greenan Manor General Manager Joe Janikowski said:

“May is a real joy, and we were delighted to celebrate this incredible milestone with her. Like many of our residents, she has deep ties to the area and has seen so much history here over the last 100 years. She’s an inspiration to all of us, and we were honoured to share her special day and invite the Deputy Lord Lieutenant along to present her with the lovely card from The King and Queen.”

Words of Wisdom

With 100 years of experience to draw from, May was happy to share a few pearls of wisdom. Reflecting on her long life, she credited medical research and strong relationships with family and friends for her wellbeing and longevity. She also offered heartfelt praise for the NHS, acknowledging the remarkable difference it has made since its introduction during her lifetime.

Her personal advice for living well?

“Everything in moderation. Things are put into this world to be used and not abused!” She also shared a more spiritual note for younger generations, saying, “Just trust in God and don't rely on your own resources!”

A Testament to Care and Community

Living at Greenan Manor – just a stone’s throw from where she was born – May says her favourite thing about the home is "the warmth and help from the staff, from the top of the tree to the bottom."

This echoes the values that underpin all Meallmore care homes. At Greenan Manor, the C.A.R.E. values guide everyday life: Creating welcoming environments, Acting with accountability, Recognising colleagues, and Engaging in continuous improvement. These principles ensure every resident – like May – is supported not only with expert care, but with compassion, dignity and respect.

A Special Place to Call Home

Situated on Tiree Avenue in Doonfoot, with beautiful views over Ayr Bay, Greenan Manor is one of Meallmore’s flagship care homes, offering a selection of high-quality ensuite rooms with modern conveniences. The home provides specialist nursing and dementia care in a comfortable, homely setting where each individual’s story is valued and celebrated.

The warmth, laughter and love shared during May’s 100th birthday party are the perfect example of the vibrant, person-centred culture at Greenan Manor. At Meallmore, we don’t just care for people – we honour their lives, their stories, and the wisdom they bring to our communities.

Happy 100th Birthday, May. Here’s to you, and the extraordinary century you’ve lived.