2009-02-26

Sam Quaid celebrates 100

By Stephanie Parker

Medina resident Sam Quaid celebrated his 100th birthday at Medina United Methodist Church on Sunday, Feb. 22, surrounded by friends and great-nephew Albert “Butch” Quaid.

Quaid grew up with musical legend Gene Autry and said they were as close as brothers. He is related to movie star Dennis Quaid, whom he not only met in 1995, but also presented with the Quaid family Bible.

Asked Sunday how it felt to be 100, Quaid quipped, “Don’t know. I haven’t had time to feel it yet.”

Then he added, “I’m okay. I’m enjoying my birthday. But really, it’s just another day.”

Quaid’s mother lived to be 102 and one of his brothers lived to 104. “I’m aiming to pass him up,” Quaid explained. “He felt good right up to the end.”

When Quaid was born, Taft was President, stamps cost 2 cents and federal spending equaled $.69 billion.