Centenarian Virgie Jean Gasaway Inducted Into East Tennessee Century Club

Concord Place resident celebrated for reaching 100 years old with induction ceremony.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 4:03am

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A grid of stylized, silkscreen-like images depicting a stack of old, weathered books in warm, earthy tones, representing the lifelong love of reading that has sustained Virgie Jean Gasaway throughout her 100 years.A vibrant visual celebration of a centenarian's enduring passion for the written word.Knoxville Today

Virgie Jean Gasaway, a resident of Concord Place, an Anthem Memory Care community in Knoxville, Tennessee, was inducted into the Century Club of East Tennessee on her 100th birthday. Gasaway, who has been married for over 70 years, was recognized for her dedication, resilience, and lifelong love of learning, which she cultivated through careers as a bookkeeper, shorthand typist, and secretary.

Why it matters

Reaching 100 years old is an incredible milestone, and Gasaway's induction into the Century Club highlights the vibrant lives and contributions of East Tennessee's centenarians. Her story also underscores the importance of maintaining an active mind and spirit through hobbies like reading, which Gasaway credits for keeping her curious and engaged throughout her life.

The details

Gasaway was born and raised in Onieda, Tennessee, attending a one-room schoolhouse before going on to win her high school's spelling bee. She met her husband, Lotus, while working at the Y12 facility, and the two later traveled the country delivering boats after retiring from their respective careers at Sears and as a train conductor. Gasaway is known for her devout Christian faith, caring nature, and lifelong passions for sewing, gardening, cooking, and reading.

  • Virgie Jean Gasaway was inducted into the Century Club of East Tennessee on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
  • Gasaway celebrated her 100th birthday prior to the induction ceremony.

The players

Virgie Jean Gasaway

A 100-year-old resident of Concord Place, an Anthem Memory Care community in Knoxville, Tennessee, who was recognized for her dedication, resilience, and lifelong love of learning.

Lotus Gasaway

Virgie Jean Gasaway's husband of over 70 years, with whom she traveled the country delivering boats after retiring.

Lorie Ann Wilson

The life engagement director for Concord Place, who spoke at Gasaway's induction ceremony and honored her grace, resilience, and quiet wisdom.

Concord Place

An Anthem Memory Care community in Knoxville, Tennessee, that recognized Virgie Jean Gasaway's 100th birthday by inducting her into the Century Club of East Tennessee.

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What they’re saying

“Today, as she joins the Century Club, we honor not only Virgie Jean's 100 years, but also the grace, resilience, and quiet wisdom she has shared with everyone fortunate to know her.”

— Lorie Ann Wilson, Life Engagement Director, Concord Place

The takeaway

Virgie Jean Gasaway's remarkable life and induction into the Century Club of East Tennessee serves as an inspiring example of the vibrant lives and invaluable contributions of the region's centenarians. Her dedication to lifelong learning, faith, and caring for others underscores the importance of maintaining an active mind and spirit, no matter one's age.