MANSFIELD — Jack Cowell lived a full century of life before becoming a king.

On Monday, Cowell, a resident from Arbors at Mifflin, was crowned the 2025 Ageless King at the Richland County Fair.

A World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy, Cowell will turn 101 in October.

During the contest, Cowell shared many memories of growing up, particularly his background on a farm and his enjoyment of school.

Master of Ceremonies Trae Turner, chief of community living for the Area Agency on Aging, asked Cowell if he had any advice for the younger generations.

“Study hard and be good,” Cowell said.

The Arbors at Mifflin brought together the community with a heartwarming and patriotic Ageless King and Queen contest.

Ellen Mitchell, 98, earned the crown as the 2025 Ageless Queen. The honor surprised her, she said.

“Amazing, it feels amazing and breathtaking,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell shared a number of memories with her husband of 77 years. She also noted her occupation of working in a prison for 32 years.

Her advice for the younger generations got a loud applause after speaking.

“Bring God into your life. I’ve been a born-again Christian for years, and I was 91 when I was immersed in water. That is just the best,” Mitchell said. “Be happy. Life is too short to not be happy.”

(Pictures from the Richland County Fair’s “Ageless King and Queen” contest inside the John Hartz Building on Monday afternoon. The story continues below pictures. Picture credit: Hannah Martin)

Music, laughter and heartfelt moments

Themed “Proud to be an American,” the event covered the John Hartz Building in red, white and blue.

Henry Konczak provided live music, playing on his guitar to entertain the audience throughout the contest.

There were a total of eight contestants, four women and four men. Going down the line, they each got to share their name, age and answer different questions from the emcee.

The questions included their favorite toy or game from childhood, a funny story, and advice for the younger generations.

Judges for this year included Ashley Gollihue, from CarePatrol, Jennifer Miller, from Alzheimer’s Association, Julie Crabbe, from Morchester Villa, Lisa Marx, from Catholic Charities and Shirley Gregory, from Jack P. Stewart Law Office.