98 Years of Pearls, Positivity and Perseverance

At 98 years young, Martha Kenney embodies the essence of vitality, demonstrating that age is just a number when it comes to leading an active lifestyle. Her journey with the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg exemplifies the resilience of spirit, the strength of community, and the lifelong benefits of staying active. Originally from Kentucky, Martha has called St. Petersburg home for over five decades and has been a proud YMCA member for nearly 40 years.

Her Y story began in the 1980s when she first stepped into the historic downtown YMCA with her children for swim lessons. Years later, she continued the tradition with her grandchildren. What started as a family activity became a cherished routine, a part of her life that has remained consistent through the years. When the downtown facility moved to what is now the Jim & Heather Gills YMCA, Martha continued her journey there for 22 years, and now she attends Speer YMCA, closer to her home. Through it all, her love for the YMCA community and her determination to stay active have never wavered

Martha’s life has been rich with experiences. She married her husband Ray in 1946, raised nine children, and spent years moving around the country, from Omaha to Maryland, before finally settling in Florida. Her adventures took her to beautiful beaches and scenic locales, but it’s the daily routine of exercise and the camaraderie at the Y that continues to keep her energized and thriving. 

“I started with swim lessons twice a week, and now I attend SilverSneakers Circuit classes three to four times a week,” she shares with a warm smile. These classes, designed specifically for older adults, offer not just physical exercise but also a welcoming community atmosphere that fosters friendship and support. Her dedication to staying active is evident, and her presence in the gym continues to inspire everyone around her. (Image: Newspaper clipping from St. Pete Times, 1987, depicting Martha and her grandchild swimming at the downtown YMCA)

Though her workout is modified, her spirit is not. Her favorite spot in class is at the front, where she quietly but energetically follows along from her chair. 

When asked what keeps her so active at 98, she simply said, “I enjoy the classes and the people. The classes give me energy, and I’ve made so many relationships here.”

At 98, Martha still lives on her own and handles most things herself while rarely complaining about aches or pains. Her son-in-law Kevin, who often brings her to class, admires her self-sufficiency. “The Y has really helped her maintain her independence. She doesn’t need much help. On the days she goes to class, she’s always so energetic.”

Over the years, Martha has inspired others around her. “It’s never too late to start exercising and taking care of your body.” She encourages her peers to join the Y to get fit and maintain independence. Her secret to a long, fulfilling life? “Keep your mind busy, have a routine, and stay active.”

Beyond fitness, Martha embraces the social aspects of the YMCA as well. In her younger years, she participated in monthly luncheons, forming deep bonds with fellow Y members. These connections have enriched her life, providing a sense of community and friendship.

The friendships she’s built at the Y are deep and meaningful. On her 98th birthday in August, her SilverSneakers class honored her by wearing pearls — a tribute to the necklace she wears every day which her husband brought back from Japan decades ago. The celebration was complete with a music playlist curated just for her, a touching moment that emphasizes the love and respect of her Y family.

“If she can show up at her age, it almost makes you feel bad when you don’t show up,” one classmate jokes. “She’s inspirational because she makes you want to keep going, and you hope that one day you’re going to be like that.” 

Martha hopes her story will inspire younger generations to prioritize their health. For her, the YMCA has been more than just a place to work out — it’s a community that has given her a sense of belonging, purpose and joy. Whether it’s the friendships she’s formed, the energy she’s enjoyed, or the family memories she’s made, the Y has been a vital part of keeping her young at heart for the past four decades.

As Martha looks forward to many more classes and birthdays, her story reminds us all that staying active, staying connected and proudly wearing your pearls can make all the difference in leading a long, healthy and happy life.