Programme Director for Aged Care Services, Social Development Department, Mrs Trisha Smith-Gomes, has said centenarians in the Virgin Islands (VI) have witnessed the country then and now and are an important bridge between time. Photo: GIS

The Ministry of Health and Social Development, through the Social Development Department, said it remains committed to promoting the well-being of older persons and strengthening the support available to them and their families throughout the Virgin Islands. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

The VI observed National Centenarian Day on September 22, 2026, under the theme ‘Then & Now…Through the Years’. 

Centenarians in the VI are Mr Evelyn Hodge (103 years), Floresa George (103 years), Iris Leonel Harrigan (102 years), and Christeen Hodge (102 years). 

The observance also honoured the late Mrs Enelle Smith and Mrs Esmie Estene Turnbull-Stoutt, two treasured centenarians who recently passed away.

An important part of families & communities

Smith-Gomes explained that centenarians have witnessed the VI then, a simpler time when community, family, tradition and neighbourly support were at the heart of everyday life; and the VI now, a changing Territory shaped by growth, technology and new opportunities.

“Our seniors are part of the foundation upon which our community was built. They raised families, supported neighbours, contributed to the development of the Territory and helped preserve many of the values and traditions we enjoy today.”

National Centenarian Day, she added, provides an opportunity not only to celebrate those who have reached 100 years and beyond but also to reflect on how older persons are treated and supported as they age. 

“Honouring our seniors must go beyond recognising a milestone. It is also about making sure they continue to feel valued, included, respected and cared for as they age.”

A bridge between then & now

“Our centenarians are truly a bridge between then and now, carrying our history, values, stories and traditions from one generation to the next.”

Their lives, Smith-Gomes said, are a reminder of where we came from and the importance of preserving our heritage for generations to come.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development, through the Social Development Department, said it remains committed to promoting the well-being of older persons and strengthening the support available to them and their families throughout the Virgin Islands.