Jamaican celebrates 100th birthday in Toronto

MABEL WRIGHT, who was born in Mount Carey in the parish of St. James, recently celebrated her 100th birthday in Toronto. A reception to honour the centurian was held at the Malvern Community Centre in Scarborough, and it was attended by more than 250 guests, including many relatives.

Some of them travelled from as far away as Jamaica, England and the United States to attend the occasion.

Longevity in the Wright's family is not rare. Her grandmother lived to the age of 101, while an aunt of hers lived to the ripe old age of 102. She attributed her long life to serving the Lord and working hard.

Some of those who know Granny, as she is affectionately called, remarked how sharp and alert she is. I was informed that in spite of being blind, she is still able to keep up with happenings on the soap operas. The Young and the Restless is her favourite.

Mrs. Wright has eight children, 62 grand children, 48 great grand children and 18 great, great, grand children. At the function two of her grandsons, Danny and Delroy, paid tribute to their grandmother on behalf of the other grand children, while Shaka and Nkrumah paid tribute to her on behalf of the great grand children.

One youngster in the audience commented that he had never seen a 100-year-old person and proceeded to touch her.

Many of Mrs. Wright's sons were in attendance, and they paid glowing tributes to the loving mother. Others in the audience offered their heartiest congratulations.

One of her relatives, Ken Wright said: "Granny, you have always been there for all of us. Even though we may not have shown it all the time, we do admire the fact that you are still with us. We all hope you will live to see us through many more years to come. Love from all of us."

A greeting from the entire family said: "Congratulations Granny. You have lived to see four generations; this is a blessing in itself."

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