Friends, family and government officials came together on 18 February to celebrate the 108th birthday of much-loved Montserrat resident Sarah Piper.
Among those in attendance at the Margetson Memorial Home were Deputy Premier Veronica Dorsette-Hector, acting social services minister Crenston Buffonge and Governor Sarah Tucker.
The deputy premier delivered a message to Piper on behalf of Premier Reuben Meade, saying: “He sends best birthday wishes for you, lots of love, and when he returns, he will come himself.”
She continued: “We want to wish you, on behalf of the people and Government of Montserrat, a very happy birthday.
“We thank God for your life and for your gift to Montserrat that you would have served us for many years.”
Dorsette-Hector said one of the things that Piper does very will is to “give honour to God through your singing” and added that may be one of her secrets to long life.
“Today, we want to thank you for the contributions that you have made… May God continue to bless you and enrich your life and bless all those who are also assisting in taking care of you,” she said.
Buffonge also told Piper: “We’re here today to celebrate you for achieving 108 years. That’s a very long time to be alive, and I know you have a lot that you could tell us about how to get there.
“Be thankful, God has been good to you, and that is why you are here today to celebrate and all these people here to celebrate with you.
“We are proud of you. Some of us envy you. I’m only 50. I don’t know if I’m going to get 100 and anything.”
He finished by joking: “Any secret you have that you can share with the rest of us, please tell us before you go.”
“It was a heart-warming morning to be able to celebrate with Ms Piper who was in excellent form, singing with the most beautiful melody,” she said.
“We are thankful for her health and wish her continued happiness.”
