Eleata Richards, affectionately called ‘Aunt Lee’ by everyone, is 103 and shows no signs of slowing down! A staunch Christian, the proud mother of four maternal children (only one is alive now), ensured they were brought up in the fear of the Lord.
Dr. Sylvanus Thompson, speaking from Canada, shares fond memories of his mother, who he said set him on the right path, making him the man he is today. There is so much she imparted to him, and you could not miss the love and admiration in his voice as he spoke about her to Freedom Come Rain.
“From the wisdom of a 103-year-old mother, I learned the profound lesson of resilience and adaptability. Her journey through a century of life encapsulates the essence of perseverance in the face of adversity. Throughout the years of growing up and living with her, I have grasped the importance of embracing change, finding strength in hardship, and cherishing the simple joys of existence. Her resilience serves as a beacon of hope, reminding me that no matter the challenges I encounter, there is always a path forward, illuminated by the enduring spirit of resilience,” he stressed.
Dr. Thompson credits his achievements professionally, which led to global recognition, to his mother and the selfless sacrifices she made. Now a retired public health professional and a Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Member, he is a former Jamaica Diaspora Advisory Board member for Canada.
Dr. Thompson said it was only natural that he would adopt those very same principles in raising his children. It didn’t matter that they were growing up in a different era; he taught them the value of education and hard work in achieving success, just like his mother did.
Aunt Lee’s love, devotion, and ensuring Christ was kept at the centre of her offspring’s lives, continued with her granddaughter Audrey, who grew up with her from a tender age after the death of her mother.
A special bond was developed between the two that kept strengthening with each passing day.
Commenting on their relationship Audrey Ricketts said she enjoyed the singing and praying sessions they had, with her grandmother talking about family members who were unknown to her.
“She knows the words and tune of almost any religious song. It’s amazing how much of the past she remembers in spite of her age and fading memory. Sometimes I have to actually record the conversations to share with other family members to show how much she remembers and how active she is occasionally,” she revealed.
Aunt Lee’s love and care did not stop with her children, as she informally adopted and raised other children that came across her path as if they were her own.
Another thing that sticks out in Audrey’s memory, is how her grandmother never forgets to say ‘God bless you’ whenever someone gives her anything, and the first thing she says in the morning when she opens her eyes is “thank you, Jesus”.
Aunt Lee, who lives in the community of Victoria in Northern Clarendon, makes no secret of what keeps her going. She proudly declares that it is the goodness of God.
Wearing the title of ‘mother’ is something that she did with pride as she took on several jobs in her younger years, working as a domestic helper, a seamstress, and a farmer. She also baked products to sell—anything that would ensure there was always food on the table and her children were taken care of.
Dr. Thompson, cannot forget his mother’s sacrifices, hence the reason he never misses an opportunity to fly in and spend valuable time with her, pampering and catering to her every need.
Describing his mom as “a woman who has lived a long and fruitful life, filled with faith and devotion to God,” Dr. Thompson said she has likely seen many changes in the world and in her own life, but her unwavering faith has kept her grounded and hopeful throughout it all.
“As a mother, she has undoubtedly played an important role in the lives of her four children, several grandchildren, siblings, and other relatives, passing down her wisdom and values to the next generation. Her legacy is one of love, faith, and resilience, and she is a true inspiration to all who know her,” he said.
He said she instilled in him and his now-deceased siblings the value of education as a means to ensure independence and make useful contributions in life.
“Being loving and respectful to each other were important lessons that we inherited and benefited from,” he recalled.