Habif Greets 80 Graciously
Friends and family toasted Sherry Habif on entering her ninth decade with grace and style.
One might imagine the real Pearl Mesta when Sherry Habif celebrated the big 8-0 at Dunwoody’s Message in a Bottle on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 11.
Son, Adam Jaffe, addressed the crowd, “We were thinking about taking Sherry somewhere exotic, but she really requested to have this party. We’re blessed to be surrounded by beautiful women; and I’m the one male exception. Let’s celebrate Sherry, who’s very genuine and holds a special place in her heart for all of her friends. It’s insane that she’s going to be 80. She seems like 50 or 40! You can see here even at her party taking care of everybody else and also bringing her own decorations. We started with 25 invitees and went to 50. No one has a zest for life like Sherry. She is one of a kind.”
Sherry’s friendship circle spans generations, including mother-daughter, Heather Low, with mom, Ellyn Goldstein. Longtime friend Phyllis Cohen told the AJT, “Sherry is a fun, giving, and super talented woman. Just look at the colorful decorations she created here.”
Harriett Behr flew in from Louisville to celebrate Sherry who introduced her to her future husband. She recalled, “I met Sherry in 1991 at Lord & Taylor. She’s a very loving person.” Sherry reciprocated the compliment that Harriett “looks darn good for 86!” Actually, there was a table of guests aged 90-plus perfectly coiffed and convivial.
Sherry, dressed in a knit ecru ensemble, went from room to room, table to table, introducing, netweaving, recalling how all the friends might know each other.
When she thanked the group, she was especially proud of her granddaughter, Blair, who greeted guests at the front door. It appears that she has Sherry‘s gracious and outgoing personality.
Suzy Goldman, longtime friend, said, “Sherry is my Disney World.”
Carolyn Piha noted that Sherry was one-of-a-kind and the most generous woman she has known.
Shanghai rummy friends declared that Sherry makes away (wins) with most of the money.
Sherry was the subject of an Atlanta Jewish Times travel article (2023) detailing her trip of a lifetime to Abu Dhabi (ducking in and out of mosques wearing a burka); then off to Oman. In April 2025, she was honored by the William Breman Jewish Home with a lifetime achievement Award.
Sherry’s tips for Living a full life into the 80’s:
Health: Have a few good physicians who take care of your total body, internist, dermatologist, dentist, etc.
Be your own advocate; get all kinds of checkups throughout the year.
Physical Activity: minimal; 3-4 times per week
Walking is great movement, and having a friend along makes it pleasant; also Zumba and Latin aerobic dancing.
Charity work: Happiness comes in many forms. Volunteer!
“I’ve been involved with the William Breman Jewish Home Auxiliary for 18 (Chai) years on the Board, planning events, and decorating. Retired from the Board, I enjoy decorating the lobby with seasonal themes, and baking for the Annual Game Day,” Habif said.
Activities: Canasta, Bridge, MahJongg, board games all lead to friendship and social life. For guys, fishing, poker, golf
“I dine weekly with my son and daughter-in-law and precious granddaughter. Make special time for each of them, as they should always come first,” Habif said. “I have wonderful stepchildren and their spouses, nine grandkids, and 17 great-grands from my second (late) husband. I entertain for Jewish holidays.”
She continued, “Travel lends different perspectives on life outside of your own and refreshes the body. A change of scenery is great, and I love meeting people from other places and learning about other cultures.”