Ballwin, MO  (KTRS)  Dorothy Hunter of Ballwin has reached a huge milestone.

The former school teacher turned 110 years old on Monday, making her the oldest known person in the St. Louis area.

To mark the occasion, a birthday party was held at Meramec Bluffs Senior Living Center, where she resides. Over 300 guests attended the celebration to honor Mrs. Hunter, who still lives independently.

She was born back in 1907 in south St. Louis. Hunter says the secret to her longevity is “moderation.” The elegantly dressed lady added, “I had wonderful parents and everything was in moderation, no extremes.”

Hunter graduated from Cleveland High School and went on to earn her degree in teaching at Washington University. This was followed by 25 years of service in the Normandy and Kirkwood School districts, where she taught third grade – her favorite grade.

“It’s the perfect age because the groundwork has been laid by the kindergarten, the first, and second grade teachers and I had the third grade. I clear sailing because the fundamentals were laid and all I had to do was have fun and teach.” Hunter fondly reflected.

Hunter has outlived her husband, Harry and their daughter, Julie. She is survived by two grandchildren, who live outside of the St. Louis area. She also has a niece, Meg Shea of Kirkwood, who attended her birthday party.