L. Meiling Yen, 97, affectionately known as Grandma Yen, passed away at her Mattapoisett home.

Mrs. Yen came to the U.S. at the age of seven from Canton China and she settled in Attleboro. Meiling graduated from Attleboro High then attended Sargent College at Boston University.

She was the daughter of the late SluHu Moon Shang and Yee Shee Shang and of Attleboro, and the wife of the late George Yen of Mattapoisett. In 1950, they opened up the five-star Meiling’s Restaurant in Mattapoisett, which closed in 1979. She liked to note that they were the first to bring the Chinese style buffet to this area. Meiling enjoyed a good life. Much of it is attributed to living each day to the fullness. When asked what her secret for a long life is, Mrs. Yen is quick to say “eat right, as you eat to live, exercise everyday and help at least one person every day!”

Her philosophy on life is simple, treat people with respect, kindness, and try to make at least one person happy everyday. She will be quick to tell you that education is the key to a successful life, without it you will have a hard time succeeding.  Meiling enjoyed in the later years gardening, reading, swimming, shopping, eating out, and visiting friends. Her favorite book was the “Good Earth” by Pearl Buck. Mrs. Yen would be seen delivering fortune cookies to the Police Department, town officials, doctors, neighbors, and their children. She called it good clean fun.

She always said, “Never say goodbye, say “Enjoy Life!”

Meiling is survived by her three daughters Gloria Besthoff of Greenwich, CT, Victoria Williams of Chantilly, VA, and Ameia Yen-Patton of Mattapoisett; five grandchildren, Barton Chin, Eric Chin, C.J. Williams, Keri Williams, Peter Yen Patton, and four great-grand children.

She is also survived by seven sisters Mai Shang Woo of Elmhurst, NY, Mary Shang Chin of Dedham, Lily Shang Mooncai of Fort Meyers, FL, Olive Shang Manoli of Las Vegas, NV, Nancy Shang Hsi of Estero, FL, Evelyn Shang of Mililani, HI, and Joan Shang Wong of Woodbridge, VA. She was predeceased by brothers Kai Q Seeto, Kai Pak Seeto, Kai Ong Shang, former mayor of Attleboro, and sister Virginia Shang Chang of Hawaii.

A memorial service will be held in North Attleboro.