The St Ann Senior Citizens Association recently recognised six stalwarts who have given a combined 200 years to public service and community development.

Those recognised were Neville Tyndale, Dwight Russell, Winston Lawrence, Oscar Lawrence, Phyllis Green and Juliet Campbell.

Tyndale, a former educator and member of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), has served the parish as a member of the Discovery Bay Kiwanis Club for 28 years. The man who lives by the philosophy ‘help others so others will help you’, also worked for years at Noranda Jamaica Bauxite Partners and the Bank of Jamaica as a security officer.

Russell, another past member of the JDF, has also been making meaningful contributions to the parish through the Kiwanis Club of Ocho Rios for more than 16 years.

Lawrence, a former councillor and current caretaker for Sturge Town Division, was honoured for his work as a parish development officer and for years of service at the Ministry of Agriculture.

Lawrence, a former firefighter, who retired after 30 years of service, still takes the time to train young men from his community in the skill of welding. The Sturge Town resident was awarded the badge of honour for long and meritorious service.

Campbell, who worked in two government ministries, has been contributing to the parish in many areas as she has not only helped persons to get social benefits, but also played an active role in helping many to get employment.

Green who has been a part of the St Ann Senior Citizens’ Association for 20 years, was recognised for her years of invaluable community service.

Meanwhile, Lawrence who lived in Wales for years said he was not very keen on returning to his homeland at first.

However since returning home, Lawrence said he has been impressed with the recognition which is given to seniors.

“I wasn’t expecting this kind of support, therefore I am surprised and fully committed to anything I can do to help,” Lawrence said.

Responding on behalf of fellow awardees, Lawrence said recognising seniors for their contribution should be emulated in all spheres of society.

“They have given their selfless service to the community as a recipe for economic development,” he said.

He noted that being able to serve others always brought a satisfying feeling.

“I am feeling proud in light of being honoured,” he said.

He further added that although retired, several persons were still willing to continue making significant contributions to society.

“We are willing to work with our community. This is not the end,” he stated.

Former principal of Marcus Garvey High School Lesley Riley, who was the guest speaker at the awards ceremony held at the Baptist church in St Ann’s Bay recently, also encouraged the awardees to continue giving of themselves to society and to lead by example.

Riley, who now operates a small restaurant, reminded the awardees that being a retiree does not mean they should stop making significant contributions, as it presents the opportunity for them to do things they wanted to do over the years. Riley said he has always loved cooking and now that he is retired from public service he is pursuing that passion.

Several senior citizen community groups were also recognised for their hard work. Runaway Bay was named the group of the year for its contribution to arts and culinary while the Thicketts senior citizens’ group placed second in that category.