With five children, 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, the 88-year-old has devoted her entire life to being a proud mother. 

On Sunday she will be among 55 women pampered at Regis Aged Care at Norwood as part of Mother’s Day celebrations. 

After moving to the centre in October, Mrs Claridge has become known as the “lovely lady” by staff thanks to her gentle demeanor. 

With a passion for craft and gardening, she says the hobbies help keep her hands busy and her mind sharp. 

“My hands are never still,” she said. 

“I make teddy bears, quilts, crochet. I might not remember who taught me how to crochet, but I love it. 

“Every one of my children and their children and then their children get a teddy when they are born. 

“I have probably made more than a hundred over the years.

“I love craft as much as I love gardening. It keeps me busy and that is important.”

Mrs Claridge spent 40 years in Launceston, becoming a full-time mother after marrying “her love” Trevor. 

The couple later moved to Bridport, where Mrs Claridge became the “pillar of the community” through her involvement in numerous organisations. 

Her daughter Dianne Wivell said she couldn’t have asked for a more loving mother. 

“Growing up, there was just nothing mum wouldn’t do and that extended to beyond just us kids,” she said. 

“She was a devoted daughter, wife, mother and grandmother.

“I am very proud to call her my mum. Long may she reign over her huge extended family.”

Last week Mrs Claridge celebrated her 88^th birthday.

Being born a week before Mother’s Day, she said it was always a special time of year. 

On Sunday she will enjoy being visited by her family, along with her new friends at Regis Aged Care.

Lifestyle Coordinator Jacky Voorham said Mrs Claridge was the epitome of grace. 

“She is such a special women and we are certainly very lucky to have her here,” she said. 

“Our Mother’s Day is about celebrating all of our women.

“I think Dorothy is a wonderful example of a lady who loves her family.”