104-Year-Old California Woman Shares Her Secrets to a Long, Happy Life

Ella Darby, a WWII veteran, recently went viral for sharing her story and love of Skippy peanut butter.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:20pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a jar of Skippy peanut butter repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the iconic status of this everyday lifestyle object in the story of a vibrant centenarian.Ella Darby's lifelong love of Skippy peanut butter has become a symbol of her joyful, active lifestyle at 104 years old.Murrieta Today

Ella Darby, a 104-year-old woman from Murrieta, California, is celebrating her upcoming 105th birthday. Darby, a World War II veteran, recently went viral on social media for sharing her story and love of Skippy peanut butter. She credits her long, happy life to staying connected with family, playing brain-stimulating games, eating a healthy diet, and pursuing hobbies like dancing and collecting teddy bears.

Why it matters

Darby's story and longevity tips provide inspiration and practical advice for living a fulfilling life, even at an advanced age. Her viral popularity also highlights the power of social media to share uplifting stories and the importance of celebrating centenarians who have lived through major historical events.

The details

Darby joined the Navy at age 23 in 1943 and worked as a bookkeeper in a bakery. After the war, she became a school bus driver. Now 104 years old, Darby lives with her daughter and son-in-law, Steve Bovee. She enjoys going out to eat, dancing, and riding in the car. Darby's daily routine includes calling family members, playing challenging iPad puzzle games and cards, eating a healthy breakfast, and keeping her living space clean. She also loves listening to music, collecting teddy bears, and attending church weekly.

  • Ella Darby will turn 105 years old in the coming days.
  • Darby recently went viral on social media for sharing her story and love of Skippy peanut butter.
  • Darby's 105th birthday party, sponsored by Skippy, is planned for this weekend.

The players

Ella Darby

A 104-year-old woman from Murrieta, California, who is a World War II veteran and recently went viral for sharing her story and love of Skippy peanut butter.

Steve Bovee

Ella Darby's son-in-law, who helps care for her and shared details about her daily routine and hobbies.

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What they’re saying

“I just went with the flow, year by year. ... I really don't hurt at all. I am so lucky. What a wonderful life I've had.”

— Ella Darby

“She's always learning new card games ... and she'll beat us half the time.”

— Steve Bovee, Ella Darby's son-in-law

What’s next

Ella Darby's 105th birthday party, sponsored by Skippy, is planned for this weekend and will feature a hip-hop themed celebration with dancing.

The takeaway

Ella Darby's story and longevity tips, including staying connected with loved ones, keeping the mind active, maintaining a healthy diet, and pursuing hobbies, provide valuable insights for people of all ages looking to live a long, fulfilling life.