Centenarian, Una Ifill, serenading Acting Governor General, Sir Philip Greaves.
Birthdays are times for merriment and centenarian, Una Ifill did just that when she marked her 100th milestone yesterday.
Singing one of her favourite gospel songs, “Something In My Heart Like A Stream Running Down”, Ifill serenaded Acting Governor General, Sir Philip Greaves, who paid her a special visit at her Battaleys, St. Peter residence for the occasion.
This was Sir Philip’s first official visit to celebrate with one of this island’s centenarians since being sworn into the post of Acting Governor General by Chief Justice, Sir Marston Gibson, over the weekend.
While interacting with Ifill, he spoke admirably about what a wonderful voice she has for her age. He additionally congratulated her on reaching 100 years, while noting that it is always good to see people from the North. Sir Philip also presented her with a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of non-alcoholic wine.
Ifill, who is commonly known as “Sylvie”, was surrounded on the day by her family members, some of whom flew in from the United States of America, her neighbours, friends and church family from Church of God, St. Peter where she worshipped. Also present were students from the Roland Edwards Primary School.
The former labourer told The Barbados Advocate she credits God for allowing her to reach her 100th birthday.
“I try my best to put God in front to guide me and protect me and direct me in the right way until the time is up. What a friend I have in Jesus,” she quipped.
Ifill has four children, one of whom died, six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Speaking fondly about her grandmother, Sharon Ifill said, “It was good. She put God first and she always used to be working hard and she always say to make sure you put your best foot forward in whatever you do and put God first in everything.”