Ireland-born Bridget “Birdie” Tyler, a resident of Riverside Place in Hoquiam, turns 104 today.

Born April 10, 1917, in Broher, Ireland, Tyler moved to England to pursue a career as a nurse, said her daughter, Vicki Fender.

“World War II started soon after, and Birdie dealt with air raids, blackouts and moving patients to safety,” said Fender.

Tyler met and married Corporal Wilbert “Tippy” Tyler while he was serving in England.

“Birdie was a war bride and came to America to start her new life in 1947 in Grayland with first daughter Patricia,” said Fender. “Soon to follow were daughters Vicki and Jillian.”

The family farmed several cranberry bogs for 32 years — Tyler retired from Ocean Spray after 31 years.

“Birdie developed macular degeneration at 80 but continued living alone until she had a seizure at 103,” said Fender, and moved into Riverside Place. “She is still smiling and happy and up every day walking. She is the matriarch of our family and loved by all.”