Celebrating 99 years old with Whataburger

When Mary turned 99 years old earlier this year, her family planned a surprise party with help from the Whataburger in nearby Durant, Oklahoma—her favorite restaurant.

“They had these balloons blown up, and they had 99 everywhere,” Mary said. “I had a crown on my head, and people thought I was Queen Elizabeth. I never knew I favored her!”

Mary started the party by reciting Psalm 23 for her guests. About 20 people attended, including loved ones, her pastor, and a member of the tribal council of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, of which Mary is a proud member. The party was even covered in the local paper and tribal newsletter.

“A lot of people know me, I guess, after 99 years,” she said.

Mary & Whataburger, Friends Forever

When Mary was first introduced to Whataburger, it quickly became part of her weekly routine. A close friend would pick her up every Thursday and drive them 21 miles to the hairdresser. After Mary got her hair done, they’d eat at Whataburger before the drive home.

“I'll be coming here all the time,” she remembers saying after her first time. “I’m still with them, and I hope to be forever.”

Along with food and decorations for the party, Mary received a gift box that included a Whataburger puzzle and a robe, which she wears all the time now.

“I thought whoever selected it did a fine job,” Mary said. “I said, only a lady could do that. I'm very thankful to Whataburger for everything they did for me.”

Mary’s secret to a long, happy life? A positive attitude and a little stubbornness.

“The last time I was in the hospital,” she said, “the doctor told me, you're pretty smart, but you're stubborn. I said, yeah, I'm stubborn, but it's got me this far!”

Reminded that this year is Whataburger’s 75th anniversary, Mary said, “Happy birthday, Whataburger!”

“Whataburger is a true friend, and I’ll always be with them.”