DEL MAR, Calif. — Jane Wilkens, a Solana Beach resident, celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends, marking a century of resilience, hard work, and dedication to her loved ones.

Born during the Great Depression, Wilkens recalls her mother's compassion during those difficult times.

"She felt sorry, I guess, they were starving, they didn't have food," said Wilkens, describing how her mother would invite strangers into their home to bathe and eat.

Credit: Jane Wilkens

Growing up, Wilkens experienced firsthand the challenges of daily life without modern conveniences, including the task of washing clothes by hand.

"It was [a] tedious job, it took all day practically," she said.

Jane married Bob Wilkens and raised four boys, a feat she remembers with humor.

"They got

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