Robert-Seaga Johnson wipes tears from the eyes of his 99- year-old grandmother, Icilda 'Nana' Burrell, who was overwhelmed by her birthday celebration. Looking on is Robert's mother and Icilda's youngest child, Meneta Roper-Davis. - Contributed photos
Lime Bottom in Ocho Rios, St Ann, was the venue for the celebration of Icilda Annetta Burrell's 99th birthday on Wednesday February 11. The wiry woman was in a witty mood as she was surrounded by scores of family members who gathered to celebrate with her. Affectionately called Nana, Burrell was born on February 11, 1910, in Islington, St Mary, where she lived until two years ago.
An older sister and a younger brother predeceased her more than 30 years ago.
Family members came mainly from St Mary and St Ann and included her two daughters, Rubie Bryan and Meneta Roper-Davis. Her only surviving son, Isaiah Bryan, was unavoidably absent.
Special moments
Her children and grandchildren, told numerous stories about their special moments with the 99 year old. Her grandson, Robert-Seaga Johnson, recalled how the grandchildren used to get a fine thrashing with coconut brooms, a bunch of broom weed tied together or a piece of bamboo wattle from the wall of the outdoor kitchen.
Nana, who walks unaided and has the full capacity of her sight and hearing, said she gives God thanks for her family and friends who have taken good care of her over the years. She, however, said she has no secrets to long life, as she was a heavy smoker for 60 years. She only stopped smoking at age 80 when she was baptised in the Seventh-day Adventist faith. "It's the grace of God that is keeping me. When God is ready for me, I will be ready too." But her family members don't believe that God will be ready for her any time soon.
Working years
She attended Hillside Primary School, the same institution where Governor General-designate, Dr Patrick Allen was principal of the school during the early 1980s. She spent most of her years as a copra worker at Quebec near Port Maria.
Grandniece Sharon Taylor and great granddaughter Tressan Johnson assisted Nana in cutting her birthday cake. Her family and friends are eagerly awaiting February 11, 2010, when they hope to gather again to celebrate Nana's 100th birthday.
Ninety-nine-year-old Icilda 'Nana' Burrell (in red blouse) being assisted by grandniece Sharon Taylor (seated left) and great granddaughter Tressan Johnson to cut her birthday cake while five generations of the Burrell family look on.