Family and friends, mainly from the Island Harbour area, gathered around Clemence Lake, an inmate at the Miriam Gumbs Senior Citizens’ Home, on Sunday, September 11, to celebrate her 99th birthday.

Bishop Brooks congratulating Clemence Lake

Wearing a lime-green dress, Ms Lake was ready for the celebration long before many of them arrived. Among those who affectionately greeted her with hugs and kisses were her sisters Florence Fleming of Island Harbour, Marylla Martin of Old Ta and Geneva Harrigan who resides in Tortola and her only surviving offspring Olga Richardson who lives in Texas.

Bishop Errol Brooks congratulated Mrs Lake on her birthday, borrowing the phrase “99 not out” known only too well by her great nephew, Lanvil Harrigan, a former Leeward Islands cricketer. He read two portions of Scripture from Philippians and the Book of Psalms, delivered a prayer and spoke about the divine love which enabled her to enjoy a long life.

Clemence Lake with sisters and other relatives

The short service of blessing was followed by a specially-prepared luncheon for the occasion.

Mrs Lake celebrated her 99th birthday following the passing of her friend, Hilda Gumbs, 90, on September 2. Mrs. Gumbs, a former resident of Island Harbour, was also an inmate at the Senior Citizens’ Home.

Family and friends at the birthday celebration

Meanwhile, Adrianna Richardson (Miss Dan) of North Hill, who recently celebrated her 100th birthday, died at her home over the past weekend.

The oldest person in Anguilla is Rose Hughes, 102, who is originally from West End and is a resident at the Senior Citizens’ Home.

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