Westport celebrates 'Fast Eddie's' 104th birthday with car parade

It was a birthday celebration for the ages, literally.

The Westport community held a birthday car parade for its oldest resident, Edmond Beaulieu, who is better known as "Fast Eddie."

"104 and he's cutting his grass, he's always got projects he's always doing something," said neighbor Brian Soares.

On Tuesday, Beaulieu's family lined the streets outside of his home on Sanford Road.

"Today, the oldest Westport resident, my grandfather who's standing behind you, turns 104," said his grandson and Westport Fire Captain Brian Beaulieu. "This is the first time I've seen him since all of this started."

Fast Eddie was a mechanic for several years.

His family said before the coronavirus crisis, he enjoyed going to car shows during the day.

"There have been no car shows and he hasn't been able to get out with the downturn on what's going on here, so they're coming by to say hi to him," said Beaulieu. "It's probably a little overwhelming for him with everyone that's here and he has no idea what's about to happen."

Fast Eddie can still walk and talk.

"He still drives, he has a 25 Franklin," said Beaulieu.

More than 100 people put their pedals to the metal to wish him well.

Originally, his birthday parade was planned for this past weekend, but due to the overwhelming response with it being a weekend, the decided to cancel and reschedule for a week day.

"The only problem is when word got around with everyone who knows him, they estimated over 1,000 cars would be parading down the road which can be a logistical nightmare for public services and residents trying to get around," said Beaulieu. "This way, there are still some of his friends and their cars, it's great."

Neighbors said like the cars he loves, he's a classic.

"Aw, man. He's awesome, he's an inspiration for everybody around here," said Soares. "This is awesome for him."