‘Young at Heart’ is not an expression for Troy resident Bettyann Walker, but a way of life. She can often be found playing tennis or exercising, which is a good routine for anyone, but it’s especially impressive for Walker because she is 90 years old. Her friends at Schroeder Tennis Center surprised Walker with a party to celebrate her birthday. It had to be a surprise as Walker doesn’t like things to be done for her as she’s still extremely self-sufficient.

Walker doesn’t believe in idle time as she is always moving on to the next activity. “I think it’s important to keep moving. That’s been my key to good health,” she said.

It wasn’t until Walker was 62 years old that she first played tennis, by taking lessons from Will Stephey at Troy Park. She has since become a very skilled tennis player who remains active on the court, chasing after any balls that are near her. She doesn’t let anyone take it easy on her and expects nothing but the best from her competitors, “If you don’t perform well or miss a shot, she lets you know about it,” said Jo-Anne Phillips.

Phillips, who is 81, is part of Walker’s tennis group. When the two of them play together it’s a common joke that there is more than 170 years on the court between them. Walker serves as a sub, filling in when one of the ladies can’t participate in their match, but gets plenty of playing time. “I’d like to be in a league, but I don’t have time,” said Walker.

Walker also exercises six days a week at the Y and plays pickle ball three days a week, except for during the summer months when there’s leagues and she plays more often.

For several years, into her seventies, Walker was involved with the Habitat for Humanity, where her favorite job was to help with the roofing.

Walker was married for 48 years to Lorenzo ‘Dow’, before his death in 1989. Dow fell head over heels for Walker the first time he laid eyes on her. “We met when I accidently tripped him while roller skating. I just stuck my foot out a little,” she said.

They had two daughters, Walker now has fifteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, who she enjoys spending time with.

A dog lover, Walker has had to put five of them down, each was cremated so their ashes can remain with her for eternity. “They are all going to be buried with me, but the casket is starting to get crowded,” said Walker.

Walker has never been much for resting, and she’s in no hurry to start now as she plans to continue to keep staying on the go. “I’d like to go for 100, but maybe 95 first, she laughed.