‘Baby’ is 100 years old

“Not many of us will live to be 100 years… Today we are also very grateful as a nation and as a people, to have another [centenarian] in our midst… we pray that God will continue to bless her.”

These were the words of Minister of National Mobilization Frederick Stephenson last Tuesday, when he joined family, friends and well-{{more}}wishers in celebrating the 100th birthday of Elvira ‘Baby Jack’ Finch.

Finch, who resides at the Garden of Eden nursing home at Dorsetshire Hill, was in high spirits at the event, and at times moved to tears by the fond memories persons shared of her.

Stephenson added: “This is a very significant milestone… When a cricketer scores 100 runs, everyone in the crowd applauds… an individual living for 100 years is a significant achievement – especially when all the faculties are intact!”

George Baker, Finch’s son-in-law, described the centenarian as a “good woman” and explained that his love for her had deepened after the loss of his wife Carmen Baker seven years ago.

Baker, who has been caring for ‘Baby Jack’ since then, said that his mother-in-law has a healthy appetite and is generally in good health, with no serious ailments.

Originally from Dubois, Finch spent the majority of her working life employed as a domestic assistant. She has two children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne was also in attendance, bringing greetings from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“I’d like to thank her for her contribution to the country,” said Ballantyne. “Those people of Mrs Finch’s age laboured hard to build this country and we, the younger people, are reaping the benefits of their hard work.”

The Governor General also lauded the family, friends and caretakers throughout the country who care for the elderly, opining that how well they do so is directly proportional to how long they live.

“We hope you live to see many, many more, and may God bless you!”

Also in attendance were several members of the Gospel Hall Church – the institution Finch used to frequent in past times – as well as representative from the Cane Grove Neighbour­hood Watch Grenville Williams, who described it as a “privilege” to share the special day with her. (JSV)