There was a celebratory atmosphere at the home of Barbados’ newest centenarian, Doreen Cummins, as she marked her 100th birthday on Wednesday, January 7, with a gathering of family and friends at her home in Ealing Park, Christ Church.
One of the specially invited guests was the President of Barbados, His Excellency, Lieutenant Colonel, The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic.
Upon meeting the President, Ms. Cummins remarked: “God bless you Sir, I give you health to undertake your undertakings,” to which His Excellency replied: “Thank you very much, I hope God gives to me some of what He has given to you.”
The centenarian shared that her mother, Gwendoline Smith, also celebrated her 100th birthday in the same house and “in this same place” in which she was seated.
Ms. Cummins also shared that she lived through challenging times, including World War II, the 1937 uprising in Barbados and other difficult times. However, she stressed that through it all she “is still here, holding on”.
She attributes her longevity to putting her trust in God, having a good mind, working hard, being “careful with everything”, and enjoying the simple pleasures in life such as her favourite meal – breadfruit cou cou.
In her tribute, Dr. Nicole Simpson, a friend of the centenarian, commented: “We gather to celebrate a truly remarkable woman whose life has been a blessing for generations. I am especially grateful for the Wednesdays we spent together, sharing our mutual love of breadfruit cou cou; simple moments filled with warmth laughter and love that I will always treasure.”
Born and raised in Spring Farm, St. Thomas, Ms. Cummins attended the St. Thomas Girls’ School until seventh standard. She started working at the age of 13 as a shop assistant for R.D.M. Maxwell, where she earned BDS$7.00 a week, which she noted was “in that day, a lot of money”.
She eventually opened and managed her own business, in Bank Hall, St. Michael, for 40 years, until retirement.
Ms. Cummins, who is an Anglican, now lives a quiet life and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She still enjoys eating breadfruit cou cou, prepared in the traditional manner.
Her advice to the younger generation is to face today’s challenges as she faced hers, and to have respect for the elderly.
His Excellency presented Ms. Cummins with a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of non-alcoholic wine. He commented: “This is not just a tradition; this is an honour…. I am honoured to be here with you…. God give you health and strength in all that you do.”
Ms. Cummins has five children, nine grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
Troy Barker
