Still Got It at 109: Aurora’s ‘Ornery’ Birthday Queen Steals the Show
An Aurora woman who once joked she was “too ornery” to ever reach old age has now officially celebrated an incredible milestone—109 years of life.
Irma Palmer recently marked her birthday surrounded by family, friends and caretakers, with decorations from the celebration still filling her living room weeks later. The moment drew attention across the community, with even Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman stopping by to honor the occasion. Despite the spotlight, Palmer keeps her sense of humor, laughing about her age and the attention it brings.
As reported by Fox31, Palmer has become something of a local legend, with people often stopping her in public just to shake her hand and say they’ve never met someone her age. Her daughter says those moments have become a regular part of life, turning everyday outings into celebrations.
Palmer’s journey began in Alabama before eventually bringing her to Colorado in the late 1950s, when her husband was stationed at Lowry Airfield during his service in the Air Force. The couple raised five children in Aurora and built a life rooted in family, travel and resilience. Though her husband passed away years ago, his memory and military service remain a strong presence in her home.
In recognition of her life and the sacrifices made alongside her husband’s military career, Palmer has been named a “Serving Those Who Serve” Hero of the Month. It’s an honor that highlights not just her longevity, but the decades of strength, humor and love that have defined her life.
At 109, Palmer continues to embrace the attention with a smile—and maybe just a little bit of that ornery spirit she credits for getting her this far.
