June Norwood, a living testament to a century filled with wisdom, resilience, and joy, has reached the remarkable milestone of 100 years. Born in Pennsauken on June 10, 1923, to George and Mary Collins, June was the ninth of 10 siblings, all of whom she has outlived. She is a mother of three boys and a cherished member of the Bethel A.M.E. Church. Her life story weaves strength, family, and faith into an inspiring tapestry.
June is not just an ordinary centenarian; she is MEND’s longest-standing resident, having lived here for almost 26 years. She thrives in this vibrant and caring community, expressing her contentment, “Everyone is just so friendly – it’s a great community all around. I couldn’t ask for a nicer place to live.”
MEND has played a significant role in June’s life, accommodating her financial situation and providing her with a comfortable home. Maintaining her independence is something she values deeply. The convenience of MEND’s location keeps her close to her family and her hometown of Moorestown, where she resided since the 1940s.
June’s son, John Norwood, is grateful to see his mother living comfortably at MEND. He appreciates the kindness of the staff and the affordability of the housing. He states, “Everyone at MEND is so kind and always looking out for Mom. The staff works efficiently, and the price is just right.”
MEND holds a special place in the Norwood family’s heart. June’s grandson once resided here, benefiting from MEND’s resources to secure a better future for himself and his newborn son, June’s great-grandson.
June is deeply thankful for her three sons, Melvin, Charles, and John Jr., their incredible wives, Florence and Tanya, her step-daughter, Joan, who predeceased her, 11 beloved grandchildren, and a growing number of cherished great-grandchildren. She emphasizes the love that binds her family together.
With 100 years of life experience, June imparts these words of wisdom, “Be kind to people, and people will be kind to you.”
Eileen Wirth, MEND’s President/CEO, describes June as “the epitome of why MEND was started – to provide hardworking people with a hand up and offer them a decent, comfortable place to call home.”
About MEND
Moorestown Ecumenical Neighborhood Development, Inc. (MEND) is a private nonprofit housing development organization founded by several Moorestown churches in 1969. MEND is a nationally and state-recognized developer committed to providing safe and affordable rental housing to senior citizens, people with disabilities, and families with low to moderate incomes. Over the past 50+ years, MEND’s affordable housing initiatives have represented a $150 million real estate investment in the region, offering 777 residential units across 31 locations in southern New Jersey.
