A century of wisdom - Lester Hayle sharp and spirited at 100

Reaching a century is a feat few achieve, but for Lester Hayle, hitting 100 has been more than a milestone--it's a celebration of sharp wit, cherished memories, and the joy of family.

With his mind as sharp as ever, Hayle continues to enjoy life with his beloved family, delighting in their company across generations.

"I feel good about this, reaching 100 years. Many of those people who get to be 100 cannot talk. I read and talk and sing, everything, and I do have a good memory," says Hayle, who marked his milestone last December in a vibrant celebration in Negril, Westmoreland, with 50 loved ones.

Though his legs may no longer carry him as they once did, Hayle remains active in spirit, cherishing the time spent with his grandchildren and friends.

"I am proud of my family, and they are the people who look after me, accompanied by two helpers, and they are a tower of strength to me," he adds with a warm smile.

Born in Bethel Town, Westmoreland, on December 24, 1924, Hayle was raised by his grandaunt after his mother moved to Montego Bay. He fondly remembers his Baptist roots and the tight-knit community of Bethel Town.

"There was nothing there for you to do, so you had to go and look life for yourself," he recalls of his early years.

At 18 years old, Hayle relocated to St Andrew, where he got a job as a timekeeper at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Council, as it was then called. During this period, he met his eventual spouse Louise Tyson, now deceased, and the two married in 1948, with their union producing three children, six grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Hayle eventually left the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Council and worked for a time at the Ministry of Housing. After that, in 1965, he worked for People's National Party co-founder and former Jamaican Premier Norman Manley as his personal constituency organiser in St Andrew Eastern.

Raymond Copeland fondly remembers his strict yet loving grandfather.

"Growing up with Gramps, I was the 'bad one,' so he used to beat me, but I turned out to be the best one. I have come back to Jamaica about 21 years now to be with him, myself and my wife," Copeland said with pride.

"Ten years ago, he used to go to the gym and work out with a trainer and everything. If you owe him money, make sure you have it, because he remembers everything."

Commenting on Jamaica's youth, Hayle voiced his concern over the lack of opportunities steering many towards crime.

"There must be more opportunities for the young people, and they are not to be let go, running up and down. You have to make it easier for the young people," said Hayle.