FOUR generations of family members were on hand to celebrate Imamenda DeRizzio’s 100th birthday, including her children, grand children, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren and scores of other relatives and friends, at her home in Hopewell, Highgate, St Mary.

DeRizzio, who is affectionately called ‘Miss Dolly’, thanked all who came to celebrate the special moment with her.

“I’m very happy and I thank God that I live to see 100,” said the smiling centenarian who still reads and holds a good conversation at her age.

Two of her 14 children – Lionel DeRizzio and Vernice Campbell – were overcome with joy as they helped to cut the huge cake.

Her son Lionel said his mother who was born on March 31, 1915 – the year after World War 1 began -survived all the challenges Jamaica has been through.

“She grew up in the time when she had to walk a lot as there wasn’t any transportation around and although many people used donkey her family could not afford one,” he explained.

“She raised a large family, both those she gave birth to and many others as she is one who loves children and cared for them,” he said.

Her personal physician Dr Morais Guy, who was among the large turnout of guests, described the centenarian as a “senior treasure not only in her Highgate community but the wider Jamaica.

“She is easygoing and we have had many conversations. I want to wish you a happy birthday and long life,” he told her.

Dr Guy, who is also Member of Parliament for the constituency, presented a letter to DeRizzio from Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller which read in part, “I wish to express my heartiest congratulations on you reaching this amazing milestone, your 100th birthday. You are very special and so the honour is due for all the great experiences that life has given you. Celebrating 100th birthday is a special gift from the Almighty. Today we honour and treasure your life and wish that your birthday be filled with sunshine, smiles, laughter and love. Remember it is not the years in your life that matters it is the life in your years. May God continue to bless you.”

Beverly Moonah, the first grandchild, said she had great childhood memories of growing up with her grandmother.

“She was very kind and I have very great memories. She grew me… and she loved and cared for all of us and sought to our education and welfare”.

Many other tributes were given, some in songs by other relatives, friends and her church family.

Many family members travelled from distant countries abroad just to be there to share in the special moment with this well-loved matriarch.