Papa De De thanks God for life

What was supposed to be a grand celebration on June 3 was scaled down to a mere fraction of the original plan, but that didn’t prevent centenarian Paul Valentine from marking the milestone birthday with a bang.

Fondly called Papa De De, Valentine lives in the Heights of Aripo, a little village situated northeast of the Borough of Arima, where he has spent the majority of his 100 years exploring the natural beauty of his home – the rivers, mountains and numerous estates – planting and reaping a variety of crops, attending mass at the St Jude’s RC church, helping to build his community, spending time with his nine siblings – five of whom he has outlived – and taking care of his large family.

In keeping with the covid19 protocols outlined by the Ministry of Health, the soft-spoken father of seven, grandfather of 36, great grandfather of 46, and great great grandfather of two was unable to host the elaborate birthday party that was being planned for him by his loved ones.

Instead, he was the guest of honour at a much smaller event during which family members, relatives and close friends made short visits in small numbers throughout the day, following all safety protocols, of course. And he was just as happy with the change in plans as he smiled and chatted with his guests.

A representative of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services, on behalf of Minister Camille Robinson-Regis, was there and presented him with gifts. But for him, the greatest gift was to get to such a major milestone and to be able to share it, even during a pandemic, with loved ones.

“I thank God for life and health,” he said.