By Jeremy W. Steele
The Cincinnati Enquirer

COLLEGE HILL - It's Elizabeth Chambers' first triple-digit birthday. The former White Oak resident, who had lived alone and cared for herself until just after her 99th birthday, celebrates birthday No. 100 today. Family and friends gathered Sunday at Llanfair Retirement Community in College Hill to honor Chambers.

"I just said I'm going to make it to tomorrow, make it to this or make it to that, and you make it," said Chambers, who now lives in the care facility.

She's the only 100-year-old resident of the community, nurses say, and the only person that old who has lived there for as long as anyone can remember.

The religious woman grew up in Richmond, Ky., with five brothers and two sisters. Family members say all the siblings lived long lives - although none as long as Chambers.

Son Orrin Irvin attributed much of Chambers' long life to her determination.

She's outlived two husbands - Marcus Irvin, whom she married in 1919, and Hurston Chambers, whom she married in about 1944 - and one son, Rondal A. Irvin.

Orrin Irvin, now 76, was about 9 when his father died, leaving his mother to raise him and his brother. Chambers did odd jobs, including laundry for clients, to support the family. After she married Hurston Chambers, the couple owned grocery and clothing stores.

"She was supporting us both and trying to make a life for us," he said. "She did a lot of hard work."

Granddaughter Linda Gardner of West Chester recalled how Chambers used to make bread, candies and cookies. She also always made sure her home was well-decorated, even into her elderly years, Gardner said.

"Her house was like Better Homes and Gardens," she said.

Chambers has never had any major illnesses and didn't drink or smoke, her son said. She only moved to Llanfair upon doctors orders.

"She always said she was going to make it (to 100), and she did," Irvin said.

E-mail jsteele@enquirer.com