LIBERTY – Sullivan County this week celebrated the milestone birthday of Zita Speer, who turned 103-years-old on Thursday, April 11th.
Sullivan County Legislators Brian McPhillips, Matt McPhillips and Luis Alvarez visited Speer at Achieve Rehab and Nursing Facility in Liberty to celebrate the occasion, along with dozens of fellow residents, officials, staff and family. Speer’s son, Michael Speer, is Sullivan County’s Coroner.
“Zita has been part of the fabric of Sullivan County life for most of her life, and she’s raised a family that keeps on giving to the community,” Matt McPhillips said. “I’m proud to know her and grateful that I got a chance to spend this special birthday with her in Liberty. She’s a truly special person and a pleasure to be around!”
Speer worked for years as a receptionist at Sullivan Internal Medicine and as a switchboard operator at Laurels Hotel. She was very active in the community and was a member and past president of the Monticello Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. She is a charter member of the Monticello Senior Club.
Speer was treated to a delicious birthday cake at her party and a parade of law enforcement vehicles with lights flashing.
“It was a nice event and I think it was just what Zita wanted,” Brian McPhillips said. “I know her family well, so it was just great to be a part of it. There is definitely longevity in the family, which is a good trait to have.”
