Leaders pay tribute to centenarian

Resident of Bull Savannah in St Elizabeth, Simonette Rochester, was showered with praise by Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen, Prime Minister Bruce Golding and leader of the Opposition, Portia Simpson Miller, for reaching the milestone of 100 years on October 22.

Rochester is the mother of former state minister and member of parliament, Derrick Rochester.

At a special service held at the Bull Savannah Seventh-day Adventist Church on October 23, the governor general said Rochester's contribution to the community should be sufficient to inspire members of her family, others in her community.

In his tribute, Golding said Rochester has been blessed, "achieving the milestone of three score and 40 years".

"If that is not something to celebrate and give thanks for, I don't know what is. It is a remarkable achievement, and we are here to celebrate with you this wonderful life," the prime minister told her.

Simpson Miller described Rochester as blessed. "We give thanks for someone who has lived a good life. She is really blessed, and if we can learn anything, it is to ensure that we treat our bodies well, and do the things that we should do," she said.

The service was also attended by custos of St Elizabeth, Wilfred Nembhard, civic leaders, and other political representatives.