WWII Navy WAVE Julia Parsons will turn 104 years old on March 2, 2025. Please help us celebrate and honor her by sending her a birthday card or, if you live in Western Pennsylvania, pay her a visit. Julia loves visitors. Please send cards to: Julia Parsons, Room 201, 4363 Northern Pike, Monroeville, PA 15146

If you’d like to visit, please read the following note, which Julia wrote as dictated to her friend, Sue Watson. This is your chance to spend time with a true living legend from the Greatest Generation!

My name is Julia Parsons, and I will turn 104 years old on March 2, 2025.

I was a codebreaker in World War II as a Navy WAVE. I remember it all and love to talk about it.

Right now, I’m living in a residential facility and don’t like it one bit.

I love talking with people, especially veterans, those with military stories, or anyone interested in history.

Please consider paying me a visit!

Here’s what you need to know because, after all, I am over 100.

Where: I’m in Room 201, 4363 Northern Pike, Monroeville, PA 15146

When: Afternoons and evenings are best for me. I’ve always been a night owl. Afternoons are long, lonely and boring. So are the evenings. Sometimes I fall asleep out of boredom. If I’m asleep when you arrive, wake me up.

Avoid the mornings. I have a caregiver who visits me at that time.

I’d be happy to have lunch or dinner with you. Guests are welcome, and the food is not bad. For $4.00 you can join me in the cafeteria. Lunch is 11:30 ish – 12:30 ish. Dinner is 4:30 ish – 6-ish.

What else to know:

• My Hearing: I cannot hear one darn thing you say unless I’m wearing my hearing aids. Make sure I have them in when you come. The charger is on the table next to my bed. It’s best if you talk medium tempo, not too fast, not too slow.
• My Eyesight: My eyesight is failing, and I probably won’t recognize you at first. So, identify yourself, first and last name. Tell me how I know you.
• My Room: It is a single room with a love seat, chairs and a table. I spend the day in a wheelchair. If I’m in bed, I’ll often need assistance transferring. Just push the button for help.
• My Coffee: I love coffee and have a well-stocked Keurig machine. If you visit, make a cup for yourself and one for me, too.

What to talk about:

I remember my military service well and love to talk about it.

I’ve traveled a lot and have lived in many different places.

I love good food and enjoy talking all things culinary.

I’ve had many beloved dogs and one wonderful cat named Jack.

I have a lot of pictures in my room. Each has a story. If you describe the picture, I can talk about it.

What to bring:

I like flowers and sweets. But I should limit my intake of the latter. Birthday cake is great.

What to do:

I have a large calendar on my table. Visitors write notes on the date of their visit. It helps me remember who’s visited.

Who to contact:

If you’d like to plan your visit or have questions, please call my great friend and veteran advocate Sue Watson. She handles my schedule. You can reach her at 412-977-6451