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Betty White’s hometown will recognize the legendary actress on what would have ben her 100th birthday by establishing an entire day in her honor. On January 17, it will be “Betty White Day” in Oak Park, Illinois.
Vicki Scaman, the president of the Village of Oak Park, told TMZ that Oak Park residents are determined to honor White in her birthplace. Scaman plans to read a “Betty White Day” proclamation and host a memorial in the Chicago-area village. Local businesses will also honor White by offering discounts and specials, and there will be a mural contest downtown, TMZ reports.
White died on New Year’s Eve, just a few weeks before her 100th birthday. Many fans and former costars took to social media to share sweet tributes and memories with the iconic star, including Ryan Reynolds, Valerie Bertinelli, Joe Jonas, Viola Davis and others. Producers previously confirmed that Betty White: 100 Years Young — A Birthday Celebration will still go on to honor her.
“Even though Betty was about to be 100, I thought she would live forever,” White's close friend and agent Jeff Witjas previously confirmed in a statement to PEOPLE. “I will miss her terribly and so will the animal world that she loved so much. I don't think Betty ever feared passing because she always wanted to be with her most beloved husband Allen Ludden. She believed she would be with him again.”