ROCHESTER, N.H. — Marie Pay never had the chance to finish high school. Now, the 96-year-old New Hampshire woman has an honorary degree.

Pay should have graduated in 1934. But she was pulled out of school after her mother died so she could take care of her family. She was the oldest of four siblings.

Recently, she received a visit at a Rochester nursing home by family and friends. Joining them were the superintendent, principal and school president in Somersworth. They gave her an honorary diploma

Foster’s Daily Democrat reports Principal Sharon Lampros said she figured after nearly 80 years, Pay has a fair amount of life experience.

Pay said she was very surprised. She said if she had known about the ceremony, she would have worn a longer dress.


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.