It was a momentous occasion for 92-year-old Bristolian Harold “Bud” Pedley, who was showered with love and affection last Friday afternoon during lunch at the Bristol Senior Center.

Staff members gave Mr. Pedley, a longtime lunch diner, a special going away party in anticipation of his move from Benjamin Church Manor to the Rhode Island Veterans Home.

“We were celebrating all the years Bud has been with us during lunch each day,” said Executive Director Maria Ursini. “He’s been a permanent fixture here for so long. We’re going to miss him.”

Mr. Pedley, a lifelong Bristol resident who graduated from the former Colt Memorial High School in 1943, grew up in the Mt. Hope Avenue neighborhood. He later served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and for the past 16 years, has resided at Benjamin Church Manor.

“I’m Bristol born and bred,” Mr. Pedley proclaimed. “It was really nice for all these people to give me a special party like this. They’re all very special.”

Among the gifts Mr. Pedley received was an autographed T-shirt personally signed by all the diners, and a greeting card. There were also several other personalized items in his gift bag.

“I’ll miss Bud’s presence, his quirky jokes, and friendship,” Ms. Ursini said. “No one can replace Harold. He has a special seat at table 1 and his own personal coffee mug. Like all of our seniors who come to lunch, Bud is treated with love and affection.”

Donna Wilson, Ms. Ursini’s assistant, was able to get donations in the form of a special celebratory cake and balloons from Colt-Andrews School staff members.

“They’ve been very gracious in giving to our seniors,” she said. “The faculty also took up a collection and donated zeppoles for St. Joseph’s Day.”

The Bristol Senior Center kitchen staff, headed by Ann Primiano, also sent along their best wishes to Mr. Pedley.