Beryl Padmore, Barbados’ newest centenarian, is a woman who loves the Lord.
As many other centenarians before her testified, she too today credited the love and grace of God for helping her to reach the milestone of 100 years old.
When Governor General Sir Elliott Belgrave visited her 2nd Avenue Hoytes Village, St James home, a quiet Padmore was singing praises.
The mother of seven thanked God for walking life’s journey beside her and asked him to continue.
“I thank God. I thank God,” she said. “I don’t expect I gine live to see many more (but) as long as God would have muh, I will live.”
Padmore worked for many years as a domestic in the Welches and Warrens area, walking to work and getting there punctually.
But she did not leave home without ensuring that her children were fed, their school clothes well pressed and shoes polished. She placed great emphasis on their education.
Her children spoke lovingly about their mother today. They recalled that if they were not at school before the bell rang, they received a whipping. She wanted them to gain knowledge and understanding in order to qualify for good jobs to help each other.
Sir Elliott congratulated the centenarian for reaching the milestone with a commendable and admirable life story.
The Member of Parliament for St James Central, Kerrie Symmonds, commended Padmore for her contribution to Barbados and also the sacrifices she made to raise outstanding children, all excelling in their respective areas of endeavour.
“She is an industrious lady who has been very hardworking and can feel proud that she has raised some good children and has left a legacy imprinted on this country,” he said. anestahenry@barbadostoday.bb