‘There is nothing Mum would not do for her family’ — Mrs Morrison celebrates 100
On 14 September 2022, Mrs Jean Morrison celebrates 100 years with her devoted family by her side at Resthaven Marion.
Born and raised in Castlemaine, Victoria in 1922, Mrs Morrison was the third of eight children, helping raise her five younger siblings.
Daughter, Julianne, shares, ‘Mum is remembered as a bright and pretty young woman, who loved dancing and singing in the church choir.’
‘She was a clever student and a quick learner, beginning high school at the age of 10!’
After her schooling years, Mrs Morrison was thrilled to move into a clerical position at one of the biggest foundries in the country, Thompson’s Foundry.
Around this time, Mrs Morrison met her future husband, and World War II veteran, Mr Dudley ‘Dud’ Morrison, while he studied mechanical engineering at Castlemaine Technical School.
Before jetting off for deployment in New Guinea, the couple wed on 19 December 1942, spending an enjoyable few days honeymooning in Melbourne.
‘Mum and Dad spent the next gruelling four years apart, before having the opportunity to begin their married life.’
The reunited newlyweds welcomed three children into their family—Malcolm, Bruce, and Julianne—before relocating to Adelaide in 1959, where Dudley found permanent employment in his trade.
Mrs Morrison went on to live a proactive life, both at home and in the community.
‘Mum could turn her hands to most tasks around the house, such as painting, bicycle maintenance, and cleaning out the gutters well into her eighties!’
‘She also volunteered for various charities and causes, including the Country Women’s Association of Australia, Girls’ Friendly Society of the Anglican Church, Brighton Surf Life Saving Club, Flinders’ Hospital and the Red Cross.’
While Mrs Morrison enjoyed her community pursuits, family has always come first.
‘Mum is a wonderful mother, always encouraging and supporting us in our endeavours.’
Son, Bruce, agrees, ‘Mum spent tireless hours throughout the years looking after my children, so that I could run my business as a single father.’
‘There is nothing Mum would not do for her family.’
As she reaches her centenarian milestone, Mrs Morrison shares her best-kept secret, ‘If it’s not working, it just needs a drop of oil!’
Many happy returns, Mrs Morrison.
For more information about Resthaven Marion, click here.