At 90 years old, June Boyd is still clocking into work each week. Living in Toledo, Ohio, and relying on just $1,100 in monthly Social Security, Boyd has had to keep working to make ends meet. But unlike many in similar financial situations, she’s not filled with anxiety. Instead, she’s focused on purpose, politics, community — and a spiritual outlook that keeps her grounded. Her journey offers a powerful look into aging with resilience, retirement challenges, and how passion can override hardship.
From Trailblazer to Public Servant: A Life Rooted in Politics
Boyd’s life has been marked by breaking barriers. In 1953, she became the first African American graduate of a top high school in Toledo, then pursued business studies in college. Her true calling, however, was politics.
In 1958, Boyd was the first Black woman to work in Lucas County’s commissioner’s office. She transitioned from volunteering to employment by 1959, helping to bring jobs and influence into her community. Later, she served on the Lucas County Board of Elections, becoming the first Black female board member across all 88 counties in Ohio.
Her contributions went beyond titles. From recruiting election officials to working in Toledo’s affirmative action office, she focused on combating discrimination and helping underrepresented groups gain equal opportunities.
Juggling Politics, Real Estate, and Motherhood
Boyd’s career wasn’t just about civic duty. She was a single mother raising two children while earning her real estate license in 1966. To survive financially, she had to work multiple jobs. Commission-based earnings from real estate weren’t enough — she needed biweekly paychecks. So, she balanced public service and sales, always putting her family first.
That sense of responsibility extended further when Boyd took custody of both her granddaughter and later her great-grandson, well into her senior years. That meant pushing retirement even further into the distance.
“When you choose to take care of your family, you make peace with the fact that you must keep going,” she says.
Financial Reality: Living on Limited Retirement Income
Today, Boyd receives a Social Security check of $1,100 a month. She also earned income from her part-time job as a director’s assistant for the nonprofit PathStone, which helps seniors over 55 reenter the workforce. Unfortunately, she hasn’t been paid since early July due to budget delays.
Many of her previous jobs qualified under Ohio’s Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS), which requires 30 years of contributions for full pension benefits. Boyd only managed 27 years. And rather than letting her pension grow, she had to withdraw from it early to cover basic necessities like car repairs and tuition for her children.
“Technically, I blew that money,” she says, “but I have no regrets.”
Ageism and the Challenges of Staying Employed
Boyd continues to face the realities of ageism in the workplace. One of her responsibilities at PathStone is calling employers to encourage them to consider applicants over 55 — a demographic often passed over despite their skills.
Still, she’s not discouraged. Her work with PathStone brings her pride, and her resolve is unwavering.
“I’ve never had thoughts of retiring. I’ve always been willing to do whatever honest work was available.”
Community, Faith, and a Purpose-Driven Life
Boyd remains deeply active in her parish and political party. She serves as a Eucharistic minister, sits on her parish council, and helps run a Democratic women’s club. At 90, she is one of the oldest members of the local Democratic Executive Committee.
She’s even writing a book titled “Reflections of a Liberal Politician (Who Believes In Work)”, where she dedicates a chapter to aging. One of her favorite lines?
“I can tell you about the past — but you can’t tell me about the future.”
A Tight Budget and a Full Heart
Boyd’s financial life is far from easy. Her combined income from Social Security and PathStone — roughly $2,200/month when fully active — barely covers essentials. Unlike common belief, senior citizens don’t automatically qualify for discounts on utilities, insurance, or housing. Rising costs of groceries and gas only worsen the strain.
Still, she owns a six-bedroom home, where she lives with family members who help out by paying rent. Her daughter, granddaughter, and grandson all reside under the same roof, offering both companionship and shared responsibilities.
“There’s a lot of love and happiness here,” she says. “I get joy from showing my children and grandchildren that life can still be good.”
Health, Hope, and Looking Ahead
Despite her age, Boyd enjoys relatively good health, dealing only with high blood pressure and chronic sinus issues. Her doctor even tells her she looks 62, not 90. As long as her health allows, she plans to keep working.
If it ever becomes impossible to continue, Boyd is confident that her family will step in to support her. She also knows she could move into a senior housing facility that scales rent to income — but for now, she finds strength in her independence.
“I’ve had many positive things in life. That’s what makes me happy now.”
A Life Beyond the Paycheck
June Boyd’s story isn’t just about survival. It’s about perseverance, dignity, and purpose. Despite working well past retirement age with limited savings, she refuses to let finances define her. For her, life is about serving others, staying politically active, and cherishing her family.
In a time when many seniors struggle silently, Boyd offers a powerful reminder: aging doesn’t mean fading away — it means adapting, giving back, and holding on to joy wherever you find it.
