‘A rich 100 years’: Centenarian Mrs Mary Small

On 16 January 1923, Mrs Mary Small (nee Fisher), was born into a musical family of nine, in North Adelaide, South Australia.

Growing up in Colonel Light Gardens, Mrs Small attended the local St Therese’s Primary School with her sister and five brothers.

At the age of 14, Mrs Small worked at Foy & Gibson’s department store in Rundle Street, Adelaide.

Her family explain, ‘As she sat covering buttons in haberdashery—and when no one was around—mum loved to sing at the top of her voice! After her talent was discovered, she was invited to sing at various functions in the department, including the canteen manager’s wedding.’

‘Music has featured prominently in our family. Mum’s father, Leo, had his own jazz/ragtime band, and it was at one of his concerts that he met mum’s mother—also named Mary—when he accompanied her on piano as she sang on stage.’

‘In September 1942, mum and her sister, Pat, joined the Signals section of the Australian Women’s Army Service based at Keswick Barracks, Adelaide. Mum and Pat were known as the ‘AWAS Sisters’, performing at get-togethers and wartime weddings.’

‘On her discharge, mum worked at The Advertiser, and later, the drama department of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.’

‘In 1949, mum met our dad, Keith Small, who was a furniture manufacturer and retired Royal Australian Air Force serviceman. They were married on 20 May 1950, and had four children, David, Louise, Philip and Joanne.’

‘Mum’s interest in music and theatre continued after she married. She soon joined the Gilbert & Sullivan Society, the New Theatre, and the South Australian National Opera Company. In the 1960s, she became a member of The Glenlea Singers.’

In later years, Mrs Small became an avid reader, with a lively curiosity in the world around her. She enjoyed literature, became a member of Delta Book Club, and had a particular interest in politics and current affairs.

Throughout her life, Mrs Small has loved getting together with friends and relatives for musical evenings, especially singing around the pianola.

‘One of mum’s greatest joys has been seeing her youngest son, Phil, play bass in well-known Australian band, Cold Chisel. Mum and dad were so supportive, they attended many Cold Chisel concerts whenever they performed in Adelaide, well into their 90s.’

‘Mum has truly lived a rich 100 years.’

Now, Mrs Small enjoys her home at Resthaven Mitcham, welcoming regular visits from her four children, seven grandchildren, and taking an active interest in her two great-grandchildren who live in England.

Thank you to the family for sharing this beautiful story.

Many happy returns, Mrs Small!