Irma, Vera and Bertha Richardson of Long Bay are part of a strong Anguillian Methodist family. The three sisters, who always appear together in public dressed alike, are generally admired for their great community spirit and in particular the type of unity and love they demonstrate which has long characterised the Anguillian traditional way of life.

The Anguillian caught up with these fine ladies a few days ago at the Bethel Methodist Church and spoke to each of them about the bond they share.

“We came from a Christian home,” said Irma, a former Educator, who was recently appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. “Our parents brought us up to love each other and that love continues. We do not allow other matters to interfere.”

Tell us a bit more of the family, she was asked.

“There are five girls and four boys and they are all alive, praise the Lord,” she replied. “Our parents were the late Alma and Frederick Richardson. Our father died in a boating accident in 1962 when three persons from Long Bay died. They went out together on the 13th of March that year to fish at West End. Someone on land saw when the boat capsized. Their bodies were never recovered. We brought closure to the incident on the 40th anniversary when members of the three families in Anguilla, and those from overseas, held a memorial service on the 13th of March 2002.”

Vera, who worked at the Treasury Department for some years and later at Cable and Wireless, said: “I do not know what I would do without family. They mean the world to me.”

What does Vera have to say to all other families in Anguilla?

“Live in peace and unity, for unity is strength,” she replied. She was joined by the others in saying “the family that prays together, stays together.”

Bertha, who lived in England for some 15 years before returning to Anguilla in 1982, said: “I was able to take care of my dying mother and for that I give God praise.”

This sister who is married to Austin Richardson and has two children (Sharon and Robert and one grandchild) was asked what made the family so close.

“That word called L-O-V-E,” she answered. “Love and respect. In honour of our dead parents we will still respect them by living the life they would want us to live and be together always.”

Vera, Irma and Bertha Richardson

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