Penicuik Centenarian Celebrates 100 Remarkable Years
Provost Debbi McCall and Lord-Lieutenant of Midlothian Sarah Barron made a welcome visit to Penicuik today to celebrate the 100th birthday of a much-loved member of the local community, Ruth Powell Wilson.
A life well-lived
Marking a centenary of resilience, love and laughter, the Provost and Lord-Lieutenant presented Ruth with a birthday card from His Majesty The King and flowers at the very special family occasion.
Originally a Fifer
Born in Cardenden, Fife, in 1926, Ruth grew up as the middle child between her older sister Betty and younger brother Bert. Her early years took her from Cardenden to View Park, Uddingston, South Lanarkshire where she attended Tannochside School and briefly Bellshill Academy.
Dramatic change
Life changed dramatically for Ruth in 1941 when her father died in a pit accident at the age of just 40. At only 15, Ruth left school to take on her first job at Tainches Leather Manufacturers, working in accounts and bookkeeping on a mechanical adding machine—skills she would rely on throughout her life.
Sweet love
Romance blossomed when Ruth met John Gardner near the Scouts’ meeting place. The girls would gather at Mary Mulholland’s sweet shop, waiting for the boys, and it was there she and John struck up a connection. They married on 14 December 1946, just after the War, and settled in Uddingston before welcoming daughters Kay (1952) and Moira (1957).
Hard work and ambition
John worked hard and studied at home, eventually getting a degree and becoming an Associated Member of the Institute of Electrical Engineers.
Penicuik move
Work took the family to Sutton Coldfield near Birmingham for six happy years before they moved to Penicuik in 1965, buying a home in Cornbank. But tragedy struck in 1967 when John was killed in a road accident at only 45. Ruth faced the challenge with characteristic resilience, taking a job at JC & GA Edward, the local television shop, where she formed lifelong friendships.
Blended family
Happiness returned when Ruth met Bob Wilson, Captain of Glencorse Golf Club. They married in 1974—quietly, with just two witnesses—and created a blended and loving Gardner/Wilson family. They bought their shared home at St James’ Gardens, where Ruth still lives today. Bob passed away in 2000 after a short illness, aged 78.
An active life
Ruth remained deeply active in Penicuik life, enjoying golf and bowling. She proudly became the Ladies Bowls Champion in 2003, securing her name on the club’s board. She still bowls today.
Making music
Even in lockdown, Ruth embraced creativity and connection. Forming a social bubble with Moira and her husband Dave, she recorded well-known tunes in Dave’s studio—eventually releasing two CDs and appearing in a short video now featured on the StickyBox Records website: StickyBox Records - Ruthie
Lots to celebrate
From her early years in Fife to a century of family, friendships and community spirit in Penicuik, Ruth can celebrate an extraordinary life well lived. Ruth is pictured with the Lord-Lieutenant Sarah Barron on the left and Provost Debbi McCall on the right.
Get in touch
If you know someone celebrating a 100th birthday or a couple marking a diamond wedding then get in touch with the Lord-Lieutenant's office.