MARIGOT--St. James resident Dorcille Mitchell Barry celebrated her 101st birthday with a party at her home on Tuesday surrounded by family, many friends, well-wishers and elected officials.
In the same celebratory atmosphere as last year at this time for her 100th birthday, this remarkable lady continues to defy age, and as ever she was talkative, alert, and clearly enjoying all the attention and congratulatory wishes. She was surrounded by bouquets of flowers, birthday cards and presents.
A book was opened so people could also write their best wishes to her. The living room was packed with people as neighbours came by to congratulate her. There was food for everyone and at least three birthday cakes.
Among those present was Third Vice-President of the Collectivité Annick Pétrus, President of the Collectivité’s Culture Commission Yolande Sylvestre, Director of Elderly and Disabled Care at the Department of Solidarity and Families, Evelyne Ratchel with some of her staff, and President of Foundation for Hope and Music Development, Paul Whit.
The Director of Home ‘N Tools Thierry Louis donated a number of bathroom fixtures for her house. Last year, the priority was to get the roof repaired.
Lions Club members, when they visited her after Hurricane Irma quoted her as saying she hopes to outlive her mother who passed away at 102 years. She also told them she had not been afraid during the hurricanes.
Dorcille Barry was born in Roseau, Dominica. Her main profession was selling provisions by boat, travelling up and down the islands, and she also learnt to bake bread and cakes from her mother.
Bad weather meant there were often rough trips. Once the boat she was on almost sank and she fell overboard but was rescued by the crew who threw her a line and hauled her back on board.
She moved to St. Martin in 1949, a time when there was only one taxi on the French side. Later, when she married, she helped her husband, a farmer and carpenter, on the farm they had. But when she had children, he wanted her to stay home and look after the children. She has three daughters, one of whom lives in Antigua.
“She loved St. Martin in those days because it was peaceful and calm,” said daughter Iris Barry. “She is still healthy and alert. That’s due to a good diet of provisions, home-grown vegetables, fruit like mangos and guava. Mango slows down the aging process, and faith in God.
“She never smoked or drank alcohol. But she made punch at Christmas time. And she loved to cook and do all the household chores. She has a very good memory. We give her Bush Tea morning and at night. It’s good for the memory.”
