British Virgin Islands honors resilient centenarians

In a moving tribute to the enduring spirit of the Virgin Islands’ elder population, the Territory celebrated National Centenarian Day on September 20th by honoring several individuals who have reached the remarkable milestone of a century or more.

The Department of Social Development led the celebrations, recognizing the wisdom and contributions of Enelle Smith, Emogene Augusta Creque, Evelyn Hodge, Christeen Hodge, Betty Yates, Floresa George, and Iris Leonel Harrigan – all residents of Tortola who are 100 years old or older.

Chief Social Development Officer, Annie Malone-Frett, expressed the profound significance of this occasion, stating, “It is an honour and a distinct privilege to reflect on their collective life journeys and pause in the moment to say with gratitude, thank you for being such wonderful and awesome people, thank you for utilising your God given talents and patience throughout your differing cycles of life.”

Malone-Frett highlighted the invaluable impact the centenarians have had on their communities, noting, “Thank you for being that path of connection between the past and the present, but most importantly, thank you for your collective and unforgettable commitments to your families, communities and this Territory.”

The Chief Social Development Officer also praised the centenarians’ unwavering faith and enduring strength, even in the face of challenges. “Thank you for your unwavering faith in God and your enduring strength to forge ahead even in the midst of challenges,” she said.

Joining the celebration, Minister for Health and Social Development, Vincent Wheatley, visited the homes of the seven honorees, presenting gift baskets and extending words of encouragement, appreciation, and goodwill.

Wheatley recognized the centenarians as “living connections to our past, offering invaluable lessons and perspectives that shape our present and future.”

He added, “Their enduring contributions to society serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit, reminding us of the importance of perseverance, community, and history. They are the shoulders on which we stand and for this, they deserve our love, admiration, respect, assistance and care.”

National Centenarian Day serves as a powerful reminder of the remarkable resilience and wisdom of those who have lived through decades of history.