DANBURY, Conn. (AP) An 84-year-old Connecticut great-grandmother has earned her GED 65 years after dropping out of high school to help support her family.

The News Times reports that Joan Butler Kayser recently received her GED certificate after passing English, reading comprehension, math and social studies tests.

The Danbury resident says she was especially worried about the social studies exam and ``couldn't think for beans.''

Kayser kept her plans from her family up until she received her certificate in the mail in December.

She says she always felt guilty she didn't keep a promise to her mother that she would graduate. Kayser's daughter, Katheryn Cumming, says the GED ``made her life complete.''

Kayser's home aide, Carol Thibodeau, says Kayser is an inspiration for others to never give up on their dream.