BAMBOO, Westmoreland — At 100 years old Caleb Hudson is surrounded by love, laughter, and four generations of family. A God-fearing man who describes his life journey as a blessing, he wanted all his family members to celebrate his century in the house of God. They obliged.

“It was a touching moment,” Hudson told the Jamaica Observer. “I planned this event and let them know that I will be here for my 100th birthday celebration, and I want all of them to be at church with me. They did fulfil my heart’s wish, and I am grateful for this.”

On Saturday, October 11, there was a special service at Coote Savannah Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Burnt Savannah, led by his grandson Manley Skein who served as pastor for the occasion. That was just one of the events the Hudson family staged over a three-day weekend to honour their patriarch.

On Sunday, October 12, there was a family dinner at Sean Lavery Faith Hall in Savanna-la-Mar; and on Monday, October 13, on Hudson’s birthday, there was a grand celebration at the family residence in Bamboo District, Burnt Savannah, Westmoreland.

Family has always been the foundation of Hudson’s life. He is the proud father of six children, 28 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren.

“It’s a blessing and a very emotional time for the family. He is still strong and active,” his daughter Ingrid Hudson shared with the Sunday Observer.

The centenarian, born in the quiet community of Woodsville, Hanover, describes his life’s journey simply as “a blessing.”

Born to Elizabeth and Caleb Alexander Hudson, the founder of the first Seventh-day Adventist Church in their community, Caleb Hudson is the sixth of 13 children. He has outlived all his siblings, standing strong and spirited.

He attended Pond Side Elementary School in Hanover, where he quickly became known for his leadership skills and musical talent, winning numerous trophies as choir director. He still has fond memories of his childhood: he loved to sing, play dominoes and explore Mayfield Falls which ran through the family’s property.

As a young man, Hudson worked at Frome Sugar Factory as a tractor operator, a job he took great pride in doing. A doctor warned him years ago that his work might affect his hearing, a prediction that came true in his later years.

“I have no sickness,” Hudson told the Observer. “Just a little pain in the knee every now and then and my ears lazy at times.”

When asked the secret to his longevity, he replied with a mischievous grin, “Rum and water and a good wife.”

But beyond humour, his advice to younger generations carries deep wisdom.

“Give your life to Christ while you’re still young,” Hudson urged.

Looking back, he says what makes him most proud is being “from a blessed, Christ-filled family” and living long enough to see his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow.

As he reflects on a century of life, Hudson has one message for the people of Jamaica, “Put God first and never stop praying and believing.”

Caleb Hudson (third right) at his birthday dinner with his children (from left) Vernon Hudson, Adrian Hudson, Ingrid Hudson, Paulette Hudson and Andre Hudson. (Photo: Rosalee Wood Condell)

Dana McIntyre poses for a photo with her grand uncle Caleb Hudson at a dinner that marked his 100th birthday. (Photo: Rosalee Wood Condell)

Caleb Hudson at his birthday party, the last event of a three-day celebration to ring in his 100th year. (Photo: Rosalee Wood Condell)

Caleb Hudson (fourth left) cuts the cake with all his children at his birthday dinner on October 12. From left are Vernon Hudson, Ingrid Hudson, Adrian Hudson, Paulette Hudson, and Andre Hudson. (Photo: Rosalee Wood Condell)

Centenarian Caleb Hudson (seated, front row left) is joined by family and friends at his birthday dinner on October 12. (Photo: Rosalee Wood Condell)