The territory’s six centenarians received personalised gifts on Friday as the Social Development Department observed National Centenarian Day.
On Tortola, the honourees included two 104-year-olds — Enelle Smith and Emogene Creque — as well as Evelyn Hodge, 100.
Their Virgin Gorda counterparts were Betty Yates, 101, and two 100-year-olds: Floresa George and Iris Harrigan.
The centenarians’ gifts were curated to include a selection of their favourite items, according to Chief Social Development Officer Annie Malone-Frett.
“This is but a small token intended to celebrate their collective resilience, wisdom and resourcefulness, having experienced life’s joys and sorrows for a century and beyond,” Ms. Malone-Frett said. “As a territory, we extend heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering faith and resolve to the socio-economic and political developments of the territory through their differing roles.”
Health and Social Development Minister Vincent Wheatley accompanied the SDD team to the homes of all six honourees, according to government.
“It was an honour and privilege to be in the presence of these centenarians, three of which I know personally and who live on Virgin Gorda,” he said, adding, “We cannot underestimate the importance of our elders. They are shoulders on which we stand, and for this they deserve our love, admiration, respect, assistance and care.”