Gertrude Edwards going strong at 104

Although she has to use a wheelchair, 104-year-old Gertrude Edwards still has a strong grip, literally, on life.

''She is very strong for her age. Although she is not talking or walking on her own, whenever she grips you, it is then you realise that she is still very strong,'' said Edwards' daughter, Elaine Walker. She said that her mother moved to Kingston from her native Hanover and subsequently settled in Springfield, Guys Hill, St Catherine, where she has resided for the last 65 years. Edwards is the daughter of Willimina Gordon and Phillip Witter, and was born on March 24, 1918. The devout Christian is still a member of the Wheelers Mount Baptist Church in Springfield.

"The church is 120 years old and she is the eldest member of that church. She was recognised by the church on her 100th birthday four years ago. The blessings of God have kept her for us to see her at this age. We are pleased with the milestone and still hope to see her celebrating more years," said Walker.

The news team was informed that Edwards was married twice, outliving both husbands. She first wed Zedikia Walker, who died in 1968. That union produced four children, one of whom has since passed away. She later said 'I do' to Nathan Edwards, who died in 1973. They had no children together. In her younger days, Edwards was a shopkeeper, a household helper and a farmer.

Walker described her mother as a strong disciplinarian and one who worked very hard to support her family. In addition to her three living children, Edwards also has 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

"She is one who always begged me to do my schoolwork. She would also wash my clothes, and was a very good influence on the entire family. It feels great to care for her at this time,'' said Edwards' grandson, Lynworth Brown.

Determined to have her around for years to come, Edwards' family ensures that she eats well and takes her for a medical check-up every three months.