Sylvia Yonalunás of Frackville marked a significant milestone on December 31, 2025, as she celebrated her 100th birthday. Born in Hawaii on December 31, 1925, Yonalunás has called Schuylkill County home since moving there at the age of 20 in 1945. As her family and friends gathered to honor her legacy, the celebration was not only a birthday party but also a testament to her impact on the community.
Yonalunás, known for her vibrant spirit, has lived a fulfilling life as a nurse, volunteer, and matriarch to her family. She maintains her independence at the age of 100, using a walker but otherwise managing her daily routines, including making her morning coffee and enjoying her favorite activities like reading and crossword puzzles. Her daughter, Carol Thomas, lives nearby to provide support and companionship.
Reflecting on her long life, Yonalunás attributes her health to the diet and lifestyle instilled in her by her Portuguese heritage. Her parents immigrated to Hawaii from Portugal, where they worked on a sugar plantation. Growing up as the youngest of six children, she married her husband, Charles, in 1944, shortly before he went off to war. Their family eventually relocated to Gilberton, just outside Frackville, where they raised two daughters, Carol and Charlene.
Yonalunás’s professional journey began in 1967 when she became a nurse’s assistant at the former Ashland State General Hospital. Her dedication to helping others extended beyond her career as she volunteered for the Schuylkill County Retired Senior Volunteer Program for 30 years, assisting local agencies with various community services.
“Being able to help others throughout my career gave me joy,” Yonalunás said. “If I’m going to get wrinkles from frowning, I may as well get wrinkles from smiling.”
In the lead-up to her birthday, Yonalunás was honored with surprise parties organized by both the Frackville and Shenandoah Area Senior Citizens groups. Friends and family traveled from states as far as Georgia, Illinois, and Maryland to celebrate with her. The festivities included heartfelt gifts, cards, and even special treats from Hawaii, showcasing the love and admiration her community has for her.
The recognition extended beyond family celebrations. Government citations, signed by local officials, acknowledged her contributions and wished her continued health and happiness. “I never expected all of this,” Yonalunás expressed. “I’m grateful for it.”
As she looks forward to the year ahead, Yonalunás plans to continue her cherished family traditions. For her birthday dinner, she has chosen lobster tails from The Dutch Kitchen, maintaining a custom she has enjoyed with her daughter for the past four years. Additionally, the family has a tradition of preparing pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s Day, believed to bring good luck in the new year.
Despite feeling “partied out,” Yonalunás values the time spent with her family. She is now the matriarch of four generations, with five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. The joy of togetherness is what she treasures most as she embarks on this new century of her life.
In celebrating Sylvia Yonalunás’s remarkable journey, her family and friends have not only honored her past but have also embraced the legacy of love, kindness, and community service she has cultivated throughout her life.