JERUSALEM (VINnews) The oldest Jewish woman in Britain has celebrated her 108th birthday. Julia Jackson was born on April 23, 1918. “She herself is surprised by her remarkable age,” her daughter, Josephine Lewis, told the The Jewish Chronicle. “A few days ago she said, ‘How old am I?’ I said, ‘108.’ ‘I don’t believe it,’ she said. ‘I don’t believe it.’”

Julia was born to a mother who was a seamstress and a father who was a tailor; both were Russian immigrants who arrived in England in 1874. She was the youngest of nine siblings.

“My mother hardly knew her father—he passed away at 48,” Josephine said. “But her mother raised her beautifully.”

Her mother ran a kosher grocery store in Sunderland, in northeast England, where Julia spent her childhood. Now the oldest resident at a Jewish Care home, Julia was and remains a talented musician. “She was a concert-level pianist and has even played at the care home on several occasions recently,” her daughter said.

In her twenties, Julia moved to northwest London, where she lived with her aunt and later settled with her husband, Michael Jackson (not the famous singer).They married in 1943 at Finchley Synagogue, where Julia has remained a lifelong member and is now the oldest member of the community.

During World War II, Julia worked as a secretary for Handley Page, where commercial aircraft were converted into bombers. She signed the Official Secrets Act to maintain wartime confidentiality.

Julia has two children, Josephine and Russell, four grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. At age 100, she was still riding buses and doing her own shopping. To mark her centenary, the family held a gathering spanning four generations.

Despite her advanced age, Julia remains surprisingly agile, her daughter said. “When I walk with her down the corridor, I tell her, ‘Mom, slow down, I can’t keep up with you.’ Her physical abilities are quite amazing.”

What does her daughter think is the secret to such a long life? “Broccoli—and lots of walking.” Julia herself believes the secret is “good food and exercise,” noting that she was born before women were granted the right to vote.

As part of her birthday celebrations, Julia will receive a greeting card from King Charles III and the Queen.

Shaul Taylor, president of the United Synagogue, said: “Congratulations to Julia on your 108th birthday! From your wedding in the United Synagogue to your lifelong membership, you exemplify the enduring connection we have with our members. We wish you and your family health and happiness—enjoy your special day.”
Rabbi Dr. Yoni Birnbaum, rabbi of the Fincley synagogue, who visited Julia ahead of her birthday, added: “I am very pleased to wish Julia a happy birthday on behalf of the entire congregation. Julia is exceptional and a true inspiration to us all.”

Daniel Carmel-Brown, CEO of Jewish Care, said: “We feel privileged to care for Julia, and celebrating her 108th birthday surrounded by her family, fellow residents, and staff created a truly special memory for everyone.”