Reaching 100 years is a rare and remarkable milestone—one that speaks to a lifetime of memories, resilience, wisdom, and love. Today, we honor not just the number, but the incredible journey behind it. Join us in celebrating a century of experiences, stories, and the lasting impact of a truly special individual who continues to inspire us all.

🎂 Personal Life & Milestones

What’s your full name, and when and where were you born?
Denise Madeleine Tarral. Born 13 August 1925 at Rozay-en-Brie, France
What is one of your fondest childhood memories?

Go fishing for frogs in the pond. Stealing apples with my brothers.

Can you tell us about your family growing up?

My mother was 100% deaf and raised 3 children. We spoke to her without a voice and she understood the movement of the lips.

Did you have any siblings?

Yes, 2 brothers. 1 - 5 years older who dies in concentration camp in 1945. 2 – 3 years younger who dies at 92.

What are some major world events you remember living through?

World War II 1939-1945.I walked from Paris to Orleans to escape the Germans (200 kms) I was 15 years old.

Denise and Monique in front of a shopping centre in Casablanca 1955

🧑‍🎓 Education & Career

Did you go to school/college or have a specific trade or profession?

I went to school up to 13 years old and obtained my school certificate. I learn sewing the following year.

What jobs or careers were most meaningful to you?

I had plenty of different jobs but the most rewarding was to have my café / restaurant in Paris after my return from Morocco.

❤️ Love & Family

Did you marry or have a partner? How did you meet?

I married my 1st Husband in 1943 and had 2 daughters Monique and Nadine, who passed away at 3 months. I married a 2nd time in Casablanca (Morocco) no children.

Do you have children and/or grandchildren?

1 Daughter: Monique

1 Grandson: Yann who lives in Paris

2 Great Grandchildren: 1 boy and 1 Girl who live in Paris

🌎 Life Reflections

What are you most proud of in your life?

To have my daughter Monique.

What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in the world?

The emancipation of women

What inventions or innovations do you find most amazing?

The washing machine, the refrigerator and the television.

17 year old Denise on her younger brothers motorcycle

🧠 Wisdom & Lessons

What’s the most important lesson life has taught you?

Never give up

What advice would you give to younger generations today?

Don’t make a war and work!

What’s the secret to living 100 years?

Eat well and drink MERLOT!

🎉 Celebrating 100 Years

How does it feel to turn 100?

I am happy to have reached my 100th year

What are you most thankful for today?

To have come to join my family in Australia at the age of 70.

Is there any message you would like to share with people reading this?

In 1950 I left Paris with my 2nd husband to go to Morocco. I left my daughter with her grandparents and came back in 1953 to pick her up to take her to Morocco with me.

In 1956 Morocco wanted Independence and with the events, 12-year-old Monique retuned alone to Paris by boat and train!

I returned to Paris the following year.