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Meriden honors 106-year-old Mary Riss with Spirit of Meriden award
Summary
The Meriden City Council presented the Spirit of Meriden award to Mary Riss, who at 106 shared the personal habits she credits for longevity; the council proclaimed Jan. 6, 2026, "Mary Riss Day" and invited her to be Memorial Day grand marshal.
The Meriden City Council presented the Spirit of Meriden award to Mary Riss on Jan. 6, recognizing a lifetime of local ties and community connections. Mayor read a proclamation recounting Riss’s move to Connecticut at age 20, her long career and family life, and her long-standing presence in Meriden.
Riss, who the proclamation records was born 05/11/1919 in Caribou, Maine and has lived on the East Side of Meriden for 25 years, accepted the honor and offered a brief reflection. "Going to bed early. Getting up early. Junk food," she said, summarizing the habits she credits for a long life.
Former councilor Bob Williams and family members spoke in praise of Riss; the mayor said the council would name her grand marshal for the Memorial Day parade. The mayor also proclaimed Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, as "Mary Riss Day" in Meriden.
The council presented small gifts and took group photos. The presentation was offered as part of the council’s regular meeting ceremonial items; no formal action beyond the proclamation was recorded.
