The Tribune

GOVERNOR General Sir Corneilus Smith and Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville joined staff and officials at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre yesterday in celebrating the birthday of 106-year-old patient Francis Dean.

Mrs Dean is a patient at Sandilands Geriatric Hospital. She has been recognised as the second oldest person in The Bahamas.

Mrs Dean posed for photographs with Sir Cornelius and Dr Darville and the special visit was marked with a cake cutting.

Sir Cornelius took note of the milestone celebration, leading those assembled in singing Happy Birthday to Mrs Dean. Remarking on Mrs Dean’s faith, he said, “Recognising that God, when He made us, He determined the length of our days on the earth. He also intends that we do something for others while we are here.

“Truly God must have intended something very special for Mrs Dean given the tremendous lifespan God has given her.”

He also took time to acknowledge the staff at Sandilands saying, “Caregiving is a very difficult job, so I congratulate all caregivers not only here, but also in the wider community for accepting that very difficult responsibility.”

Mrs Dean, who hails from Orange Creek, Cat Island, enjoyed a career as a domestic worker and laundress. She was married to the late Cleophas McFallen Dean. Their two sons, Calvin Culmer and McFallen Dean, have predeceased her.