What’s the secret to a long, healthy life? Scientists throughout time have tried to find the answer. Ausia “Pete” Leonard Griggers, who turned 100 Thursday, may know the secret: “eat an apple everyday.”

Affectionately known as “uncle Pete” by staff and fellow residents at Warren Manor Health and Rehabilitation Center, the Greenville native still remains jovial and in good health after living a century.

“I can’t feel no difference in it,” Griggers said chuckling, when asked about hitting the milestone. “I feel good.”

Dallas County Probate Judge Kim Ballard was also on hand to celebrate the big occasion and presented Griggers with a key to the county.

Kevin Edwards, who married Griggers’ great niece, had nothing but great words for his in-law during the event.

“I think it’s awesome,” Edwards said about the celebration. “I think he’s had a good life. He’s a good Christian man.”

Warren Manor Activities director Marva Eaton said the agency tries to honor residents often.

“This is the first one (100th birthday party) we’ve had in a couple of months,” Eaton said. “Once a month we celebrate everyone’s birthday.”

Born Feb. 23, 1912 to Tom and Molly Griggers, Pete worked 45 years at a Cotton Mill in Greenville and was cofounder and builder of The Greenville Church of God.

Pete will celebrate his birthday again with family on Sunday.