Even after living through Hurricane Janet, raising ten children and overcoming the loss of a leg from diabetes, newly minted centenarian Eunice Lenora Kirton says she has just two words to describe life at 100: “No complaints.”
The milestone birthday was marked on Monday at her Eastlyn, St George home, where President Jeffrey Bostic visited to congratulate her.
President of Barbados Jeffrey Bostic (right) with centenarian Eunice Kirton (left). (Photo Credit: Lauryn Escamilla)
When asked how she felt after reaching the century mark, Kirton smiled and replied, “Very good… Nothing to worry about… I have no trouble.” When the President remarked that he was happy to hear she was well, she responded simply: “No complaints. No complaints.”
The conversation turned to one of the defining moments in Barbados’ history, Hurricane Janet on September 22, 1955. Although many Barbadians remember the devastating cyclone for the destruction it caused, Kirton recalled it differently.
When asked what she remembered about the hurricane, she said: “It was very nice. I had no problems.”
The President suggested her outlook was “probably because of your faith in God”.
“Yes, please,” Kirton replied.
Throughout the visit, the President encouraged the birthday celebrant to share whatever was on her mind:
“Today is your day. I want you to just talk to us. Anything else you want to say? This is your time.”
Once again, her response reflected the contentment that has defined her long life:
“No problems. All are good. No complaints.”
Smiling, the President responded: “That is very good to hear, because that is not always the case when I visit. I’m glad to hear that.”
As part of the celebration, Bostic presented Kirton with a bouquet of flowers, a birthday card and a bottle of non-alcoholic wine.
Reading from the card, he said: “Reaching the remarkable age of 100 years makes you a national treasure. It’s cause for celebration… Accept my heartfelt congratulations and those of the people of Barbados on this most significant day in your life. Happy birthday, and may God continue to shower His blessings on you.”
Her eldest daughter, Cordell Price, said their mother remained cheerful despite health challenges.
“She lost a leg, but she’s in good spirits. She eats heartily… her hearing has started deteriorating, but she’s still good. She talks a lot and she asks a lot of questions,” Price said.
Kirton attended St Luke’s Girls School and worked as a housekeeper at Jordan’s Plantation before becoming a full-time homemaker, raising ten children. One daughter has since died, leaving eight daughters and one son, who now help care for her. The family also includes about 17 grandchildren and more than 15 great-grandchildren.
Price credited her mother’s discipline and strong Christian values with shaping the family:
“Every one of us had to go to church, St George Parish Church, every Sunday. As fast as we got maturity, she put us in the church.”
She also remembered a mother determined to provide for her children.
“She always liked to go and get food… dig yam, potato. Sometimes we got so much yam we were selling all. She did well, you know, made sure we were okay.”
The centenarian’s only son, Jefferson Kirton, thanked those who gathered for the celebration, including family members, journalists and the President.
“I want to thank you all for coming this morning… I want to thank you, Mr President, for taking the time. I know you have a busy schedule… We are certainly honoured by your presence.”
He noted that the family had already begun celebrating the milestone the previous day at church and would continue the festivities.
The celebration also included a short ceremony led by Senator Canon John Rogers, rector of St George Parish Church. Hymns were sung and prayers were offered in thanksgiving for Kirton’s life.
Addressing those gathered, Senator Rogers praised her enduring faith and commitment to the church:
“As we celebrate the birthday of our beloved Eunice, a longstanding member of St George Parish Church, we are very, very happy that she reached this milestone.
“We give thanks to Almighty God for blessing her with the gift of longevity and helping her to see this ripe age of 100.
“Eunice, congratulations again on 100 years from the parish of St George.”
St George South MP Dwight Sutherland also paid tribute, describing the occasion as “indeed a privilege and an honour” to celebrate such a significant milestone.
St George South MP Dwight Sutherland greeting Eunice Kirton. (Photo Credit: Lauryn Escamilla)
Kirton’s birthday adds another chapter to a growing list of centenarians, surrounded by generations of family, church members and well-wishers, her message for life remained unchanged.
“No problems. All are good. No complaints.”
(LE)
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