The Virgin Islands' newest centenarian is Mrs Henrietta A. Smith, who reached the milestone on October 25, 2016. Photo: VINO

From left: First District Representative Hon Andrew A. Fahie, Governor John S. Duncan OBE, Acting Premier Dr The Hon Kedrick D. Pickering (R7), Deputy Governor Rosalie Adams and Minister for Health and Social Security Hon Ronnie W. Skelton were on hand for the 100th birthday celebration of Mrs Henrietta A. Smith (front) at the Carrot Bay Seventh-day Adventist Youth Centre on October 25, 2016. Photo: VINO

Some of the persons in attendance at the 100th birthday celebration of Mrs Henrietta A. Smith at the Carrot Bay Seventh-day Adventist Youth Centre on October 25, 2016. Photo: VINO

Some of the persons in attendance at the 100th birthday celebration of Mrs Henrietta A. Smith at the Carrot Bay Seventh-day Adventist Youth Centre on October 25, 2016. Photo: VINO

Some of the persons in attendance at the 100th birthday celebration of Mrs Henrietta A. Smith at the Carrot Bay Seventh-day Adventist Youth Centre on October 25, 2016. Photo: VINO

Photo moment: Governor John S. Duncan OBE (right) with centenarian Mrs Henrietta A. Smith. Photo: VINO

Acting Premier Dr The Hon Kedrick D. Pickering (R7) makes a presentation of a cheque for $5000 to centenarian Mrs Henrietta A. Smith. Photo: VINO

Advent Lights song group serenades Mrs Henrietta A. Smith. It was said the group took its root at the home of Mrs Smith many years ago. Photo: VINO

Acknowledging, with a shake of the head and smiles, about the many wonderful things that were said about her by those who delivered remarks, the mother of 15 children (four deceased) and many grandchildren and great grandchildren, was also presented with a cheque for $5000 from the Government of the Virgin Islands.

Making the presentation was Acting Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Dr The Hon D. Kedrick D. Pickering (R7), who said that in reading the biography of Mrs Smith there were three things that “jumped out” at him that were important for longevity.

One of them he said was having God’s guidance.

“She also said we must be disciplined in how we live…and most importantly too is family.”

According to Hon Pickering, Mrs Henrietta’s union with Mr Donald Smith (deceased) produced 15 children and that in itself is a major milestone.

Remarks and best wishes were also delivered by Governor John S. Duncan OBE, Deputy Governor Rosalie Adams, Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Ronnie W. Skelton and Member of the Opposition and First District Representative Hon Andrew A. Fahie.

‘Secret’ to long life

The obvious question- the secret to longevity- was asked of Mrs Henrietta A. Smith who gave the foremost credit to “God in heaven.”

The amazingly alert centenarian also disclosed to this news site that she never ate any fried foods and neither was she in the habit of eating late at nights.

It was also stated by a family member that Mrs Smith was very active in her younger days and, apart from being hardworking, would frequently walk from Road Town to Frenchman’s Cay.

“Nobody could walk faster than her,” a relative stated.

As for further advice to young people to live a healthy life, Mrs Smith said an early night’s rest is important.

Meanwhile, Mrs Smith, who was born on October 25, 1916, was delighted for the celebration to mark her 100^th birthday.

“I feel good and happy.”