KUTTAWA, Ky. — Ruth Evelyn Harrington has every reason to celebrate. 

Born May 6, 1911, Harrington has celebrated birthdays through two world wars, 17 presidents, prohibition, and now a global pandemic. 

Harrington lives at the Rivers Bend Assisted Care Facility in Lyon County. Her family and friends could not stop in and see her, but Harrington's family worked with community members to set up a drive-by birthday party. Cars decorated with posters and balloons rolled into the nursing home parking lot and Harrington was waiting to see it all. 

Harrington and her late husband are well known in the community for their drive-in movie theater. They own Calvert City Drive-In Movie Theater to this day. It first opened in 1953, where it was known for its good service and great burgers. A staple for entertainment in the community, her granddaughter, Marry Ellen Nelson says people were excited to show their love and appreciation. 

“This year we get to at least come and say 'Happy Birthday' to the window, celebrate with a parade, thanks to all these people in this community,” says Nelson.

Visiting her grandmother often, Nelson says it's nice to be able to put a smile on her face every once in a while. Missing her hugs and kisses, Nelson says seeing her grandmother's reaction to the drive-by birthday party filled her heart. 

“I think she had a good time, and we were able to give her air hugs and air kisses you know that sort of thing,” says Nelson. 

Turning 109, Harrington is the oldest resident in the River Bend Assisted Care Facility and is suspected to be the oldest resident in Lyon County.