Sylvia Yonalunás of Frackville marked her 100th birthday on December 31, 2025, a date she shares with New Year’s Eve, making her celebration even more special. Born in Hawaii in 1925, Yonalunás has lived in Schuylkill County since she moved there at the age of 20. Her life is a testament to resilience and community spirit, underscored by her extensive contributions as a nurse and volunteer.
As Yonalunás prepares to embark on her centenarian journey, she reflects on her health and independence. Although she relies on a walker to get around, she manages daily tasks like making her own coffee and reading the Republican Herald. Her daughter, Carol Thomas, lives nearby and provides support, ensuring Yonalunás remains active and engaged.
A Life of Service and Family
Yonalunás recounts her upbringing in a Portuguese family, emphasizing the importance of diet and lifestyle in her longevity. Her parents immigrated to Hawaii before her birth, working on a sugar plantation. Growing up as the youngest of six, she married Charles Yonalunás in 1944, shortly before he was deployed during World War II. The couple later relocated to the mainland, establishing roots in Gilberton, where they raised their two daughters, Carol and Charlene.
Throughout her career, Yonalunás worked as a nurse’s assistant at the former Ashland State General Hospital. After retiring, she dedicated herself to volunteering for over 30 years with the Schuylkill County Retired Senior Volunteer Program, helping local organizations with food distribution and outreach.
“If I’m going to get wrinkles from frowning, I may as well get wrinkles from smiling,” Yonalunás said, highlighting her positive outlook on life.
Despite the passing of her husband in 1981 and the loss of her siblings, Yonalunás finds joy in her expanding family, which now includes five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Her family has grown to four generations, and she remains a cherished matriarch.
Community Celebrations and Family Traditions
Leading up to her milestone birthday, Yonalunás was the center of attention during a surprise party attended by approximately 40 family members, including relatives from as far as Georgia and Illinois. They celebrated her life and contributions despite challenging weather conditions. Her family also sent her treats from Hawaii, including macadamia nuts and dried mango, which brought back fond memories from her childhood.
In addition to family celebrations, local senior citizen groups in Frackville and Shenandoah hosted surprise parties, further demonstrating the community’s affection for her. At the Shenandoah center, friends presented her with gifts and an ocean-themed birthday cake, while around 130 peers gathered at the Frackville location to honor her.
In recognition of her centennial birthday, Yonalunás received government citations signed by local officials, acknowledging her dedication to the community throughout her life. “People went through all that trouble to do that for me,” she said. “I never expected all of this; I’m grateful for it.”
As Yonalunás moves into her 100th year, she plans to keep her celebrations low-key. She humorously remarked, “Oh my God, no, I’ve had it!” indicating that her ideal birthday will consist of a quiet dinner featuring lobster tails from The Dutch Kitchen, a tradition she shares with her daughter.
The Yonalunás family also observes culinary traditions, making pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s Day, a practice believed to bring luck in the coming year. This holiday season has been especially meaningful as it allowed Yonalunás to spend time with relatives she seldom sees.
Ultimately, Sylvia Yonalunás wishes to focus on what truly matters in her centennial year: being surrounded by family and continuing to foster the close-knit bonds that have defined her long and fulfilling life.
