Premier Celebrates With the Territory's Latest Centenarian

Premier Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE delivering remarks at the 100th birthday celebrations for Mrs. Robelteen Smith on Tuesday, August 12th, 2008

Roadtown, Tortola: Tuesday, August 12 – Premier Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE today joined with the family and friends of the Territory’s latest centenarian to celebrate her milestone.

The Premier was among dignitaries, relatives and well-wishers paying tribute to Mrs. Robelteen Smith as she celebrated her 100th birthday.

Describing the occasion as a rare and privileged one, the Premier said “it is a precious gift from the good Lord and we must learn to appreciate our people when they get to that age.”
He added that “the young are called flowers but the old are called treasures and it is a treasure indeed that we have.”

Chief Social Development Officer, Mrs. Annie Malone-Frett greets centenarian, Mrs. Robelteena Smith at her birthday celebrations. Mrs. Frett presented the centenarian with 100 golden roses in honour of her milestone

The Premier used the occasion to recall some of the acts of kindness bestowed upon him by the deceased husband of the centenarian, who was a boat captain, allowing him and a friend to travel free on his boat to and from St. Kitts/Nevis in exchange for helping with small tasks aboard the boat.

The Premier also presented a cheque to the centenarian as has become customary for Government but he declined to disclose the value.

Deputy Premier, Honourable Dancia Penn, QC was also in attendance at today’s 100th birthday celebrations. She described Mrs. Smith as a mentor of the community, a lady of grace, charm, dignity and integrity.

“She is one of those women who we as young girls growing up were touched by and who had to form us, and frame us and to make us into what we have become.”

Chief Social Development Officer, Mrs. Annie Malone-Frett presented a bouquet of 100 golden roses to the centenarian in honour of her milestone.

Close to 200 people turned out today to celebrate with Mrs. Smith and her relatives, many of whom travelled from the United States to share in this auspicious occasion.

Government is committed to cherishing, honouring and providing for the senior citizens of the Territory, helping them to maintain active, healthy and fulfilling lives.

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