A 100-year-old WWII airman says the secret to a long life is daily walks and helping others – and rates smartphones as one of the greatest inventions in his lifetime. Edinburgh-born John Fife brought up his century in style with two parties attended by his family and friends.
Now living in a retirement home in Clevedon, North Somerset, he was called up for National Service in 1943 and trained in the RAF as a wireless operator and air gunner. He then moved to Coastal Command, in which he served with until he was demobilised in 1946.
On reaching 100, John said that his top tip for living a long and healthy life is to have a fixed goal for every day – such as doing a jigsaw or going for a walk. And, while reflecting on his life, the veteran also thought about all the amazing inventions he has seen come to pass.
On which was the most important, he said: “Must be the medical advances we’ve seen. But recently the smartphone. I don’t have one, my brain doesn’t work quickly enough to cope!” After leaving the military, John married and started a career in the Civil Service at the Post Office Savings Bank.
John, his wife, and his two sons moved to Glasgow in 1966 where he worked on the setting up of a new headquarters for what is now known as National Savings & Investments (NS&I). This led to a very special meeting with royalty.
He added: “In 1970 I was presented to Queen Elizabeth II on her visit to the headquarters of the new Department.” In 1984 he finally retired from the Civil Service and moved to Clevedon to be nearer his sons.
Somerset Live WhatsApp Breaking News and Top Stories
Join Somerset Live’s WhatsApp community for top stories and breaking news sent directly to your phone
Somerset Live is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our community.
Through the app, we’ll send the latest breaking news, top stories, exclusives and much more straight to your phone.
To join our community you need to already have WhatsApp. All you need to do is click this link and select ‘Join Community’.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Somerset Live team.
We also treat community members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out at any time you like.
To leave our community, click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘Exit group’.
If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
In terms of advice to others, and top tips on how to live a long life, John said: “Make a decision to do things and carry them out and do what you can to help the less fortunate. Make an honest assessment of your skills and work in a job where you think you can succeed. And be content–—it might not initially be too financially rewarding, but it will pay off in the end.”
John, who turned 100 on Boxing Day (Dec 26 2024), also revealed that he starts each day with a purpose. He said: “I start each day with a fixed goal, such as a long walk or going to church, and I love completing jigsaws.”