At 100 years old, Maryland’s Mary Wykes proves that age is just a number.
Every day, she drives herself to work as an active real estate agent—a career she’s been thriving in since 1979.
Born in the 1920s, Wykes left a federal government job at age 54 to pursue real estate.
Inspired by her dairy farmer father’s advice to “work for yourself,” she took the leap and hasn’t looked back.
Her boss at Long and Foster, Janice Raffel, describes her as “positive, inspirational, and fastidious.” Despite her century milestone, Wykes is as sharp as ever, earning commission checks and loving her work.
So, what’s her secret to staying sharp? Wykes credits good genes, a little luck, and a passion for lifelong learning. Her advice: “Enjoy your work. Never retire.”
As she celebrates her 100th birthday with family and friends, Wykes shows no signs of slowing down—she just ordered new business cards!
100-Year-Old Maryland Realtor Proves It’s Never Too Late to Chase Your Dreams
Mary Wykes isn’t just a real estate agent; she’s a living inspiration. At 100 years old, she wakes up every morning, hops in her car, and heads to work with a smile, something most of us only hope to do.
Her journey is a reminder that life doesn’t have to slow down after a certain age.
Mary didn’t start her real estate career until she was 54, proving that reinvention isn’t reserved for the young.
“My dad always said, ‘Work for yourself,’ and I finally figured out how to do that,” she shared.
Through decades of helping families find their dream homes, Mary has stayed positive, hardworking, and passionate.
Her secret? Good genes, a bit of luck, and believing in lifelong learning. “Never retire,” she says. “Enjoy your work and take one day at a time.”
If Mary’s story doesn’t make you want to leap out of your chair and chase your dreams, nothing will.
Whether you’re 30, 50, or 100, there’s no better time to start doing what you love. Life is short—make it count.