Virginia “Hettie” Philip celebrated her 100th birthday this week, joining the ranks of Saint Lucia’s centenarians, as family, friends and officials honoured a life they say has been defined by resilience, sacrifice, faith and service.
Philip was born on July 8, 1926, in Garrand, Babonneau, to Lydia Philip and Anthony Beharry. Over the years, she witnessed many changes and progress. She later settled in Marchand, Castries, where she raised her family and still lives today.
Philip is a devoted mother of seven. Her legacy continues through her 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Loved as “Hettie,” she worked hard for many years to support her family, showing strength and determination as a single mother.
Over the years, she worked at M&C, JQ Charles Supermarket and Elwin Supermarket.
Outside of work, Philip became well known in her community as a herbalist. She believed her calling came from God and shared her knowledge of herbal healing with anyone who needed help. Her deep faith in God has always been her source of strength through both hard times and good times.
To mark this special milestone, the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons, through its Older Persons Unit, joined Philip’s family and friends on July 8 to celebrate her 100th birthday.
At a small but meaningful ceremony in her honour, representatives from the Older Persons Unit presented her with gifts and tokens of appreciation. They recognised her lifetime of perseverance, dignity and service to the country.
The Older Persons Unit said that centenarians like Philip represent the values that make Saint Lucian society strong. Her story reminds us how important older people are in shaping the nation and why we should celebrate their wisdom, experiences and lasting legacy.
