Friends and family got together to celebrate Nell Pierces 100th birthday by hosting a surprise party for her on Saturday, August 3. Those who attended described her as a talented artist, great friend and wonderful mother.

For several weeks, people worked to plan the surprise and Pierce says she was really shocked when she walked into the room and saw it filled with so many people.

It means a lot, Pierce said. I didnt know I still knew that many people.

While shes turning a 100 on August 16, Pierce says she definitely doesnt feel 100.

I still can read the paper without glasses I have all my teeth, she said.

Just several days short of 100, she is still able to quilt, which is one of her lifelong passions.

Shes about to be given a lifetime achievement award in quilting by two quilt guilds up in northern Arizona, her daughter, Mayra Rees said.

When asked whats the secret to living to the age of hundred Pierce exclaimed: The lords been so good to me.

Her mantra is, Lord let me be a blessing to everybody I talk to and see today. And I think evidence of the people here that is what she does. Shes just a friend magnet, they are drawn to her,” Rees said.