Woman bridges the decades with cards and good living

By Staci Dennis

Correspondent

A lifetime of playing bridge and lots of line dancing has added up to a wonderful 100 years for Imogene Hitt.

"The first 100 years were pretty good," she said. "I can't wait to see what happens next."

The Kempsville centurion celebrated her birthday on Aug. 11 with friends doing her favorite weekly activity - playing bridge.

Hitt usually plays bridge at the Kempsville and Bayside recreation centers a few days a week. When she isn't there, you can find her line dancing.

"I have been dancing since I was a little girl," she said. "It helps keep you young."

In honor of her birthday, Hitt's friends from the center threw her a celebration that included birthday wishes from the mayor. The group even made her a crown of cards. The governor also sent a letter.

"We all love her very much," said Hank Karzun, who has known Hitt for almost 10 years. "She is one of the best players here."

Hitt, whose maiden name was Mears, was born in Princess Anne County and graduated from Kellam High School in 1928. She lives in the house next to where she was born. Her son is her neighbor.

Hitt has two children, four grandchildren and two great- grandchildren, she said. She was married to Robert for 46 years.

"I am not alone because my son is right next door," Hitt said. "But I take care of the house and try to keep it up on my own."

In addition, Hitt still has her license and drives herself around town.

"I'm nervous they might try and take it away from me," Hitt said about her license. "I know I have at least one more year of good driving in me, after all I have 85 years experience. I should know how to do it by now."

Hitt said her plans for the future include a week-long vacation with her daughter in Florida.

However, she said she isn't holding out hope for any of her friends to set her up on a date, but she wouldn't count it out.

"I told my Sunday school class if they could find someone for me who is in their 80s, then maybe we could go out," she said. "I don't think that's too much of an age difference."

Besides playing bridge, Hitt also cooks and sews as well as does her own hair and makeup.

"I don't take any prescription medications, just one multivitamin a day," she said. "If you take care of yourself and stay active, then you can live a good life."

Staci Dennis, sdennis@cox.net