At 102 years old, Ellen King has reached a rare and remarkable milestone — a life spanning more than a century of change, endurance, faith, and deeply personal loss, yet still defined by gratitude and quiet strength.
“I feel blessed and feel like God has granted me a gift of long life,” King told the Go! on Monday, reflecting on her birthday with humility and peace.
Born in Mahlabathini, KwaZulu-Natal, she recalls a childhood shaped by simplicity and unforgettable moments, including experiencing two earthquakes.
“I remember singing with my friends as a child,” she said.
Her journey later led her to Johannesburg, where she met her husband and began building her family.
Over her 102 years, she has witnessed one of SA’s greatest transformations, from apartheid to democracy.
“A black man can marry a white woman now, something that was impossible during my time,” she said, reflecting on the profound societal changes she has lived through.
Her life has also been marked by immense hardship.
After the death of her husband, she raised her four children on her own.
In the years that followed, she endured the devastating loss of some of her children.
Today, she lives in Parkridge with her daughter, Mavis Morrison, and grandson, Roderick. Surrounded by family, she continues to experience the love and support that has sustained her through the years.
Her granddaughter, Maira King, plays a vital role as her caregiver.
“We spend every day together,” Maira said.
Through both joy and sorrow, King has remained anchored in her faith.
She believes her long life is rooted in “putting God first and talking to Him at the end of every day”.
Her happiest memories are filled with love and togetherness, from singing with childhood friends to Christmas celebrations with her husband, who would buy champagne to mark the festive season.
King says her greatest pride lies in having raised her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
When asked about her strength and positivity, she said: “Trusting in God and taking good care of myself. Once you find Him, everything else falls into place.”
