On Saturday, five generations of Mary Mendes’ family gathered in her Apple Street home to celebrate a major milestone for the centenarian, the Oakdale resident’s 106th birthday.

Most of Mendes' family – her three children (now in their 80s), nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren – attended the celebration.

Mendes says her large, close knit family, the majority of which live in Wareham, has kept her young at heart.

“I love them all,” she said.

Saturday’s affair was low key compared to last year’s party. Then, many friends and well-wishers packed into the cozy home her husband, Alfred, built in 1937. State Rep. Susan Williams Gifford (R-Wareham) made an appearance, visiting with Mendes and presenting her with an official citation on behalf of the legislature. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Gov. Charlie Baker and Congressman William Keating also sent official citations for the occasion.

Born on Feb. 7, 1911 in a house behind St. Patrick’s Church, Mendes spent most of her life in town, leaving only a few times.

From the age of 5 to 17, Mendes lived on Cape Verde where she attended school. The journey there featured a tragedy as Mendes’ mother passed away en route. Her father, John Cardoza, arranged for Mendes to live with her grandmother.

She returned to Wareham in 1928 and worked for the A.D. Makepeace Co. picking cranberries where she met her husband. She married at the age of 22, and the couple had three children: Fred Mendes, Jr., Mary “Sister” Mendes and Joseph Mendes. Joseph “Sonny” Amado also became part of the family after he came home with Fred one day. He's considered a fourth son and uncle to all the grandchildren.

Mendes’ oldest grandchild Saundra Mendes-Silvia lives next door. She said her grandmother isn’t as active as she was little as three years ago. Back then, Mendes joined a neighborhood effort to clean up a nearby playground. However, she still takes pride in keeping her yard tidy and tending her garden when she’s able.

Mendes-Silvia said her grandmother also receives help from a caretaker and is frequently visited by Cody, Mendes-Silvia’s terrier.

“He’s her faithful companion and protector,” said Mendes-Silvia.

As to the secret to her grandmother’s longevity, Mendes-Silvia attributed it to three things: a staggering work ethic, lifelong avoidance of alcohol and the love and support of her large family. According to her family, Mendes is already looking forward to her 107th birthday.

“We’ll see you next year,” said Fred Mendes, 85, to one person as he left the party.