Centenarians of Saint Kitts and Nevis Honored for Lifetime Contributions

Centenarian’s Day, observed annually in Saint Kitts and Nevis, stands as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit and invaluable contributions of the nation’s oldest citizens. On May 30, 2025, the eve of this significant day, Her Excellency Dame Marcella Liburd, Governor-General of Saint Kitts and Nevis, led a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable individuals who have achieved the extraordinary milestone of reaching 100 years of age and beyond. Accompanied by the Honourable Isalean Phillip, Minister of State for Ageing, and a delegation from the Ministry of Ageing, Dame Marcella embarked on a series of visits to personally honor four centenarians residing on the island of Saint Kitts.

The distinguished centenarians included Esther Harris of St. Peters, a testament to the strength and resilience of the community; Mr. Clarence Hendrickson Williams, a resident of The Grange Facility, representing the wisdom accumulated over a century of life; Angeline Revan of Sandy Point, embodying the enduring spirit of the coastal region; and Edmund Morton of Greenlands, the newest member of this esteemed group, symbolizing the ongoing legacy of longevity in the Federation. Each centenarian received a carefully curated gift basket, a vibrant bouquet of flowers, and expressions of profound gratitude for their decades of unwavering service, resilience in the face of life’s challenges, and invaluable contributions to the nation’s progress and development.

Minister Phillip eloquently captured the essence of the occasion, stating, “Today, we honor our centenarians; not just for the years they have lived, but for the wisdom, strength, and legacy they have given to our nation.” These words underscored the deep respect and appreciation for the profound impact these individuals have had on shaping the fabric of Saint Kitts and Nevisian society. Their lives represent a living history, reflecting the nation’s evolution and embodying the values that have guided its growth.

Dame Marcella, echoing Minister Phillip’s sentiments, expressed her profound gratitude to each centenarian, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s identity. “Your lives are a living legacy of strength, wisdom, and service,” she remarked, highlighting the enduring impact of their contributions and the inspiration they provide to future generations. Their personal narratives, woven into the tapestry of the nation’s history, serve as a source of guidance and inspiration for all citizens.

Centenarian’s Day transcends a mere celebration of longevity; it represents a profound national moment to reflect on the rich tapestry of life, to honor the enduring legacies that have shaped the nation, and to reaffirm the country’s unwavering commitment to caring for and learning from its elders. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of intergenerational connections and the invaluable wisdom that can be gleaned from those who have witnessed a century of change.

The visits undertaken by the Governor-General and the Minister of State for Ageing embody the spirit of Centenarian’s Day, demonstrating the nation’s deep respect for its elders. These personal interactions underscored the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of these exceptional individuals, whose lives have been instrumental in shaping the identity and progress of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Their stories, filled with resilience, wisdom, and unwavering service, stand as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.