Leeds Selectman Dwight Buckley, right, presents the Boston Post cane to his mother, Constance S. Buckley, Leeds’ oldest citizen. Submitted photo

A small group gathered recently in Leeds Center to present Constance S. Buckley with the Boston Post Cane in recognition of her status as Leeds’ oldest citizen.

Buckley, 97, was presented the cane on behalf of the Town of Leeds by her son, Leeds Selectman Dwight Buckley. Also in attendance were her daughter, Sharon, members of the Leeds Historical Society, and a few close friends, according to a news release from the society.

She was born in Litchfield and raised in East Monmouth. After earning her RN degree from Central Maine General Hospital, she worked there in the operating room until her marriage to her husband, Gilbert “Gib” Buckley in 1950, when she moved to Leeds. There, on the family farm, she raised her children and was deeply involved in serving the town as a member of the Leeds Community Church and society, and, for many years, as the town treasurer.

After the presentation, while the group enjoyed light refreshments, Buckley reflected on her long life and shared the advice her mother had given her as a child. “Be kind, be honest, be quiet, and behave yourself.” It’s advice which has obviously served Mrs. Buckley well.