Fulton County centenarian, Mrs. Beatrice Adeline Gerrich, 100 years, 7 months and 7 days departed this life at 10:23 p.m., May 10th, 2012, surrounded by her loving family at home. Beatrice was born on October 3, 1911 in Miami County, the precious daughter of Noah and Viola Weller Kirby. Growing up she shared her childhood with her brother John. In 1928, Bea graduated with her class at Laketon High School. She was awarded a scholarship to attend Manchester College. A proud and devoted member of Rochester's 1st Baptist Church, Bea was the church's oldest member and held the longest continuous membership. She was also a lifelong member of the Evergreen Rebekah Lodge. In addition to caring for her family Bea managed to work at Crystal Dairy, Torin Corporation and after her retirement she was a member of the cafeteria staff at the Geneva Conference Center. A woman of great faith, Bea loved her church and looked forward to attending Sunday services. As an armchair athlete she cheered for NASCAR's #88, Dale Earnhart and the Notre Dame football team. She looked forward to listening to the music of the Lawrence Welk Show and kept mentally sharp with watching Jeopardy and the Wheel of Fortune. Bea was the proud owner of over 150 sets of salt and pepper shakers that she had collected over the years. She also collected unique teacups and saucers. A lady of little fear, Bea enjoyed the roller coasters at Cedar Point. She is also remembered for chaperoning the high school band trip to Detroit. Each night at 8:00, Bea would call her best friend Marilyn Stretch to talk over the days events and activities. Accomplished with handiwork and crocheting, Bea created custom bedspreads for family and special friends. As an avid gardener, Beatrice planted and maintained beautiful flower and vegetable gardens annually. Beatrice is lovingly remembered by her two sons, Merrill "Butch" Gerrich and his wife Hannah Lee, of Rochester, and Oscar "Bill" Gerrich and his wife Shirley Ann of Queen Valley, AZ, 5 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren, a favorite niece Joyce Ann Girton of Star City, and favorite nephew Gene Kirby of Tiosa. Preceding her in death are a grandson and a brother John Kirby in 1953. Dr. Mark Spencer and Mr. Bill Wall will officiate services. Burial will follow in the Enterprise Cemetery near Gilead.