Centenarian remembers beloved wife as he gives thanks for milestone

Barbados’ latest centenarian, Edward Bryan Herbert lost his 96-year-old wife Alma Herbert on March 17 this year. And today, as he celebrated his birthday, his deceased partner was in his thoughts as he told members of the media he wished she was alive to see him reach this milestone.

“We always had a good relationship. She was a good wife. But I know somebody had to go first,” he said, with close relatives at his side at his Goddard’s Road, St Stephen’s Hill, Back Rock, St Michael home.

Relatives said it was Alma who had initiated the plans for her husband’s 100th birthday activities.

Nevertheless, Herbert, who thanked God for the 72 years of marriage he shared with his beloved wife, testified that he was feeling “100 per cent good” on his special day.

The centenarian, who received a visit from Governor General Dame Sandra Mason via Skype, said practising a healthy lifestyle, including eating right, from an early age contributed to his longevity.

“Try and keep away from harmful things like strong drinks and a lot of sweets and too much sugar. I never had a habit of doing any of them things. I am only diabetic but I don’t suffer with diabetes. I feel good nearly every day,” he declared.

His children said their father, who prefers to remain indoors because of his poor eyesight, spends his days watching television and satisfying his hearty appetite. They said he eats all of whatever he is fed.

The father of six, grandfather of seven and great-grandfather of three is originally from Park Road, Bush Hall, St Michael, but lived the last 20 years in Back Rock.

Herbert retired from his career as a carpenter when he was in his 70s. (anestahenry@barbadostoday.bb)