On Friday, November 22, 2019, Hilda Boyce became the fifth person from the rural, St. Swithun’s /St Swithin’s Anglican Church at Greenidge’s, St. Lucy church, to reach a century in the last 30 years.
Governor General Dame Sandra Mason, along with long-time friend and centenarian, Gileon Carrington, retired rector of St. Swithun’s and St. Clement’s Anglican churches Reverend Keith Griffith, joined family, friends and the staff of the St. Lucy District Hospital for the 100th birthday celebrations.
Born in Crab Hill, St. Lucy, Hilda was educated at St. Swithun’s School. She later worked as a domestic for the then Headmaster of Selah School, Mr. Barnett, and later as a labourer.
Married to L. Dacosta Boyce, a fisherman, in 1957, Hilda had one son, Nathaniel Griffith from a previous relationship. He currently resides in the United Kingdom, but was unable to attend the celebrations. Nathaniel’s wife Maryline, attended on his behalf.
She also has three grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.
Maryline described her mother-in-law as a pleasant, caring person who loved her grandchildren. “She is always giving. If you don’t have just call Mrs. Boyce and she will look after you. She is a really caring person.”
She also recalled Hilda’s cooking skills especially her cou-cou and ground provisions with fish.
Though being sight and hearing impaired, Hilda still has limited recall of events and can converse with relatives and friends.
